In response to patron feedback about concerning levels of noise and conversation in Library spaces, the Library is instituting a new sound level system. We ask that all visitors to the Library follow these guidelines to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for all members of our community.
Sound Levels – Rockefeller, Sciences, Orwig Music Libraries
Absolute Quiet: 0 – 25 decibels
This space is intended for those who need complete quiet for deep, focused work or restorative rest. There should be no conversation with as little noise generated by belongings/devices (on silent) as possible. Covered beverages are allowed; no food please.
Locations
Absolute Quiet rooms on level A of the Rockefeller Library
Considerate: 26 – 40 decibels
This is a quiet space best suited for individual or small group study. Hushed, brief conversation is OK. Silence phones, tablets, laptops, noisy headphones, etc. Covered drinks and quick snacks are allowed.
Locations
All Library reading rooms, internal lobbies, stacks
Conversational: 41 – 60 decibels
This space is intended for teaching, group work, and Library events. Please maintain conversation at a moderate noise level, similar to a coffee shop. Enjoy covered drinks and quick snacks. Please visit the lobby for meals and noisy or fragrant snacks. Events and classes may include catering only with pre-authorization by Library administration and a Facilities Management custodial clean. Email library@brown.edu for more information about hosting events at the Library.
Locations
Circulation area, lobbies, café area, closed group study spaces, classrooms, event spaces
Sound Levels – John Hay Library
Absolute Quiet: 0 – 25 decibels
Same as other library locations: This space is intended for those who need complete quiet for deep, focused work or restorative rest. There should be no conversation with as little noise generated by belongings/devices (on silent) as possible. Covered beverages are allowed*; no food please.
Locations
Willis Reading Room, *Gildor Family Special Collections Reading Room (no beverages)
Considerate @ Hay: 26 – 40 decibels
This is a quiet space best suited for individual study. Hushed, brief conversation is OK. Silence phones, tablets, laptops, noisy headphones, etc. Thank you!
Locations
Harriette Hemmasi Exhibition Gallery, stairwells and hallways
Conversational @ Hay: 41 – 60 decibels
This space is intended for conversations and Library events. Please maintain conversation at a moderate noise level, similar to a coffee shop. Enjoy covered drinks and quick snacks. Please visit the student lounge for meals and noisy or fragrant snacks. Thank you!
Locations
Research services area, student lounge
Decibel Levels
You may have seen decibel level guides displayed in Friedman Study Center at the Sciences Library, which are meant to denote the level of acceptable noise in each zone, moving from conversational around the reader services desk, to absolute quiet in the back of the room.
Examples of sounds with corresponding decibel levels:
- 20 rustling leaves
- 30 whispering
- 40 quiet office
- 50 light traffic
- 60 air conditioner, conversational level
- 70 a noisy restaurant (too loud for any library space)
- 80 alarm clock (beginning of hearing damage range)
Code of Conduct and Reporting Concerns
If you have concerns about behavior in violation of the Student Code of Conduct, please email student-conduct@brown.edu. Violations of the University Code of Conduct can be reported through the Anonymous Reporting Hotline by phone at 877-318-9184 or online.
For safety concerns, contact DPS immediately at 4111 (campus phone) or 401-863-4111 or 911. Calls to 911 will be directed to the DPS call center.