Library Noise Zone Guidelines

One of the common concerns expressed by students in the Vera Bracken Library is the level of noise. As an academic institution, we encourage intellectual discourse; however, sometimes the conversations can carry. This does not always prove to be an environment that is conducive to the academic endeavours of other patrons.

To this end, Library Services has established guidelines for moderating conversations within the facility. There are four zones, which are:

• Green – Normal conversation.
  You can expect conversations to be carried out at a normal volume. These areas are group study and social areas within the library.
  
  
• Yellow – Quiet talking.
  Conversations are expected to be carried out in a discrete and quiet manner.
   
• Blue – Quiet study.
  These zones are for quiet studies and no social conversations will be allowed.
   
• Red – Silent.
  The expectation is that these areas are quiet study zones and there will be no conversations.

Vera Bracken Library Noise Zones [Click to enlarge.]

Library Services would like to maintain its policy of not “policing” the noise zones. Regardless of what zone you are in, please be considerate of your fellow students and other library patrons. If you do believe that noise is excessive in your area and you are not comfortable approaching those patrons, please contact the library’s Information Desk in-person, by e-mail (reference@mhc.ab.ca), instant messenger, or text message (403.866.5872).

Library Services is continuing to examine other means of dampening sound in the library to promote a healthy and productive academic environment for all patrons.

If you have any comments, concerns, or questions, please contact us at the Information Desk in-person, by phone (403.504.3511), e-mail (reference@mhc.ab.ca), instant messenger, or text message (403.866.5872).

You can also discuss or share your opinions about the guidelines and defined noise zones via Facebook or Twitter.