APPRAISAL OF LIBRARIES IN NIGER STATE TO DETERMINE THEIR LOCATION AND METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION FOR NOISE CONTROL MECHANISM

Abstract

Libraries are required to provide quiet spaces suitable for studies and research. It is hence critical that noise is eradicated within the vicinity of a library. The concept of noise as an unwanted sound means that noise can exist anywhere and everywhere. It is ubiquitous in its existence and sources and thus can become difficult to tackle and control. The identification of noise sources is critical to effectively control noise. This paper examined some selected libraries of Niger State to identify the common noise sources within the Library spaces. The research enumerated them in order of increasing frequency using qualitative research method. The research revealed noise sources in Libraries of Niger state to be group study noise source in all libraries. It further revealed that impact noise and social chatter noise account for 90% of libraries, traffic noise source 40%, 30% with HVAC noise source while only 10% is generated from generating plant. The study recommended the provision of special reading rooms- escapist reading areas and group study rooms. It also recommended the need to anticipate future development trends around the Libraries with noise barriers to dampen noise from external sources.