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Explore the evolution of noise management in a university library setting, from research findings to successful implementation strategies. Learn about the impact of technology, changing library roles, and student behaviors on noise levels and discover effective ways to address noise concerns.
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Sush No More: Accommodating Noise In Today’s Library Darla Bressler & Kathryn Yelinek
Why this topic? • BU Librarians noticed increased noise levels and changes in student behaviors • LibQual results in 2006 & 2009 indicated unhappiness with noise levels • Prompted research and library changes
Situation at Andruss Library • Original library design wasn’t working
So we started to make changes… • Moved Reference Desk to 1st Floor • Soft seating, tables, carrels in strategic locations
… And noise levels changed • Complaints about noise on all floors are down • Librarians have noticed significant decrease in noise levels
What we learned from the research • Perfect storm of technology, changes in librarians, and changes in students has created increased noise levels
Changes in technology . . . • Cell phones/conversations • Ipods • Computers/printers • Databases • Smart boards
Changes in librarians . . . • Efforts to change stereotypical image • Efforts to become more adaptive and patron-friendly
Changes in students . . . • Millennials—a new generation of students • Student expectations: • “Digital natives” • Multi-taskers • Demand personalization/customization • Spaces to study alone OR in groups • Spaces for quiet AND for talk
Ways to work with noise • Common sense • No one-size-fits-all • Buy-in from those involved • Be willing to admit mistakes
Ways to work with noise • Zoning
Ways to work with noise • Zoning • Furniture arrangement
Ways to work with noise • Zoning • Furniture arrangement • Written policy
Ways to work with noise • Zoning • Furniture arrangement • Written policy • Signage
Ways to work with noise • Zoning • Furniture arrangement • Written policy • Signage • Student self-monitoring
We’re still learning • We still get complaints • Do we need additional soft seating? • What causes students to self-monitor? • What will students want ten years from now?
Your turn • What have you experienced in your library?
Discussion points • How has noise affected your library? • Have your attempts to address the noise issue been successful? • Have you found other successful ways to address the noise issue? • What causes students to self-monitor?