How to Encourage Quiet Behavior in a Library

Make a subtle, audible reminder for quietness. Instead of loudly confronting the noisy person or group, try to make a small noise that gently signals your need for quiet. If they’re talking while you're trying to locate a book, consider clearing your throat or softly coughing. This approach may help them realize the disturbance they’re causing.

• Avoid shushing them in a loud, patronizing manner, as it might encourage them to continue being loud out of frustration or embarrassment.

Politely ask for quiet. If someone's noise is truly disturbing you, approach them calmly and politely, asking them to lower their voice. Often, simply pointing out that they’re causing a disruption is enough to prompt a change in their behavior.

• Here are some examples you could use:
  • “I’m sorry to interrupt, but could you please lower your voice a bit?”
  • “Hey, I hate to ask, but I have an important exam tomorrow and I’m trying to study. Could you please keep it down? Thanks so much!”
  • “Would you mind relocating? This is a quiet area. I’d really appreciate it!”

Use body language to signal for quiet. Most people know that libraries are meant to be quiet spaces. A simple look in their direction should convey that noise isn’t acceptable in such an environment.

• Avoid glaring or making an angry face, as this could escalate the situation.

Be patient if the loud person is a child. If it's children making the noise, try to be understanding. Young children, especially infants and toddlers, lack the self-control of adults, and their parents are probably just as frustrated with the situation as you are—and likely embarrassed too! If necessary, ask the parents or caregivers to calm the children down.

• Typically, it’s best not to speak directly to the children, as this might scare them or upset their parents, especially if you’re attempting to discipline them.

Ask a librarian or staff member for help with the noise. Most librarians are more than willing to help resolve noise issues, as it’s part of their job. While assistants may not be as eager and might take longer to address the issue, they will usually still offer assistance when necessary.

Block out the noise. If you have noise-canceling headphones, don't hesitate to use them. An mp3 player can also help, but make sure to keep the volume low so that you don’t disturb others in the library.

• Keep the volume at a very low level since studies show that listening with headphones can actually reduce productivity while studying.

Find a private study area. Many libraries offer rooms that can be reserved for studying. If the main library area is too noisy, consider using one of these private rooms where you can close the door for a quieter, more focused environment for studying or reading.

Be polite when asking for quiet. While it’s tempting to be blunt, remember that rudeness won’t help and will only escalate the situation. If you approach them in a rude manner, the person you’re asking to quiet down will likely respond in kind, and the noise could get even worse.

• A simple way to avoid sounding rude is to shift the focus onto your own situation – for example, explain that you need quiet because of a big test, an important interview, or even because you're dealing with a headache, rather than blaming them for their lack of consideration.

Relocate to a quieter spot. If someone is disturbing you with noise, consider moving to another area. By packing up your belongings and relocating farther from them, they may realize their behavior and quiet down. Either way, you'll be away from the noise and able to concentrate better.

Wait until the noisy library patron leaves. If they refuse to quiet down, try to endure the disturbance and wait for them to leave. If your work requires intense focus, switch to a less demanding task until the person departs, allowing you to regain your concentration. Consider it a chance to give your brain a brief break.

• If you don’t have other tasks to do while waiting, consider running errands nearby. Just make sure to return before the library closes.