Have you ever visited the library only to find it wasn’t as quiet as you had expected? You aren’t alone. This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending a panel discussion on this very topic at the Ashland Public Library. The program, hosted by one of my favorite librarians, Bonnie Johnson, co-president of the Friends of the Ashland Public Library, featured Kari May, Jackson County Library Services director, and Carrie Forbes, director of the Southern Oregon University (SOU) Hannon Library. Titled “Why Libraries Aren’t Quiet Anymore,” the panel reflected on how both academic and public libraries have evolved over the past 100 years—from archives and lending libraries to bustling community centers with student activity and programs for everyone. As more and more people used the libraries through the decades and the services expanded, sound levels have naturally increased. With so many people sharing one space, it’s easy to imagine that one person’s sound can be another’s noise.
During the discussion, I was surprised to learn that academic libraries like the SOU Hannon Library have expanded their public services and outreach programs, encouraging more group meetings, social events, and even game night in response to post-pandemic needs. According to Ms. Forbes, local residents can obtain a library card and access the SOU library by joining the Friends of Hannon Library or registering for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.
I was reminded of my college days, when finding a quiet space to concentrate was a real challenge. Back then, the library was often the only place where I could get the focus I needed to complete assignments that took hours. I’d even go to cafés to use the Wi-Fi and have a bit of time away from my children to concentrate. Those long hours taught me just how precious quiet spaces can be.
The number one factor influencing noise in the library is space constraints. Library design and the ability to designate areas for different activities are essential for managing noise levels. For example, the small Williams branch of Josephine Community Library is just 1,000 square feet and struggles to provide quiet spaces due to its limited size.
To address this need for quiet, last year we installed virtual meeting booths at both the Williams and Grants Pass branches. Sponsored by AllCare Health and A Greater Applegate, these soundproof booths feature adjustable desks, high-speed internet, lighting, acoustic insulation, and even motion-activated ventilation. They’re available for community use at no charge during open hours. Patrons can bring their own devices or borrow a library laptop to use inside the booths for private calls, virtual interviews, and Zoom or FaceTime sessions. The booths are well used at both branches.
Interestingly, my husband had his own experience with library noise levels while I attended the panel. He spent the afternoon working on his laptop in the Ashland Library, connected to its Wi-Fi. When I asked him about the noise, he said it was a busy space with people chatting, laughing, and even talking to themselves—but it didn’t bother him. In fact, he found he had fewer interruptions than he does in his shared office space and was able to complete more focused work, although he still prefers his own office.
I appreciated the opportunity to learn not only from the insights of library professionals across the region, but also from the audience questions at the end of the panel discussion. Folks attending asked about quiet space, but also about unrelated topics such as new book displays and navigating the library’s website. My own question was about gaming and live streaming options for teens, and it became clear that the only effective way to manage the noise from teens on their devices is to designate a dedicated space just for them.
As we plan for the new library design at the upcoming Grants Pass branch location, these considerations for both quiet and lively spaces will be essential. The new library, set to be built at River City square between Sixth and Seventh streets and J and K streets, will offer expanded children’s and teen areas, meeting rooms, and a secure courtyard for community events. With the addition of separate small meeting rooms for private calls, virtual interviews, and study sessions, we’ll have built-in quiet spaces to support modern needs—reducing the need for the current virtual meeting booth and allowing for a more seamless experience when it comes to shared sounds and activities.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to connect with such dedicated professionals at Jackson County Library Services and SOU. Their experiences inspire practical ideas and foster a sense of shared purpose that strengthens libraries for all of us.
Between the Pages is a monthly column written by Kate Lasky, library director for Josephine Community Library since 2009. To send comments or questions, email klasky@josephinelibrary.org.
BY KATE LASKY
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN THE GRANTS PASS DAILY COURIER | November 2024