Keywords

Wearables, Stress, Noise, Libraries, HRV, heart rate variability, Collaborative spaces

Abstract

Many patrons come to the library seeking a quite environment, but some library spaces are noisy. In our study, we attempted to identify if the level of noise in a typical busy university library setting impacted the physiological stress of its patrons, as measured by wearable devices. We assessed participants’ heart rate variability (HRV) and skin temperature while they studied in different areas in the library. We found that there was no significant difference in patron stress levels while studying in loud vs quiet areas. This was even true for those patrons who came into the library hoping to be productive and not distracted. Those in charge of managing space in the library may benefit from learning that noise typical of a busy walkway is not predictive of patron stress.

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2024-06-30

Publisher

American Library Association

Language

English

College

Harold B. Lee Library

University Standing at Time of Publication

Associate Professor

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