Research finds noise perceptions impact library use

Research looking at barriers to library use has found that perceptions of noise levels are a factor that prevents people from using libraries. This qualitative research was undertaken by IPSOS for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport in England, to look at drivers for behaviour change in using libraries. For some, libraries are percieved as too quiet: “I think that they’re too quiet, and this is definitely enforced by librarians. It would be better for me if there was more of a social atmosphere where people could chat a bit more.” (Focus group participant, aged 18-24, North-East). For others, noise levels were seen as a barrier to quiet study “I think that it’s more for children as in my experience there’s often a bit too much noise for me to make it a welcoming space." (Depth participant, aged 55).  Further quantitative research to assess the relative strength of barriers and enablers by demographic group was recommended to help identify key focus areas for increasing library engagement.