Are Libraries Too Noisy?

http://www.salon.com/2013/01/31/bring_back_shushing_librarians/ (viewed 5 Feb 2013)

A recent survey in the US found that 76% of survey participants consider quiet spaces to be a very important element in any public library. And they want these quiet spaces nearly as much as they want free access to computer and internet resources.

According to the survey, having access to a quiet space is valued more than programs for kids, job search resources or special events. People on lower incomes who often live in or attend school in crowded conditions value the provision of a quiet space at their local library. Older people often prefer a quiet space where they can concentrate better and have fewer distractions.

Unfortunately, the main barrier in providing a quiet place is lack of space. Libraries need to balance the space needed for their collections and their (free) computers with the need for a quiet room or a separate meeting room. Newer libraries can incorporate these various spaces into their design but older libraries would often need considerable renovation causing major disruption to their services.

The other barrier is of course, the changing face of libraries over the last 10 years or so. As one survey participant who works in a library says “we bustle, we rock, we engage”.  Libraries are no longer just places for quiet study – these days they have become “the social hub of the community”, offering a diverse range of programs to their increasingly multi-cultural patrons.

Personally, I think we are just having an attack of nostalgia. We are starting to get fed up with all the “noise” around us (the roar of traffic, the beep of machines) and we are looking at how we can quieten things down.  Once upon a time things were simpler – we look back at the old days and want to turn back the clock.

Libraries used to be quieter, more studious places – we could do that again. Sure, I can just see today’s librarians shushing their patrons and presiding over a quiet, dignified library. That might just work until Story Time for toddlers, Homework Club for school kids, the next Author Talk for Mum and Dad, or the myriad of other activities held in the library. See that is what we have forgotten here – libraries are for all of the community. But if the community really wants a peaceful place within its local library then I am sure the library will oblige – eventually.