Finding the Sonic Sweet Spot: Implementing a Noise Management Program in a Library Learning Commons

Noise in academic libraries has been a consistent concern of library staff and library users. This concern has intensified as libraries have emphasized their role in supporting student learning, including learning that occurs in a busy, collaborative environment. Studies of acceptable library noise levels have traditionally been conducted in areas where quiet was expected. This study adds to the literature by studying ideal noise levels for a busy, collaborative study space: the library learning commons