The impact of ambient noise on patron stress levels while studying in the library

Noise and distractions are commonly associated with stress. Our objective was to identify the impact of noise and distracting environments on the stress levels of library patrons, as measured by wearable devices. In this study, we explored the relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) and skin temperature measures using consumer wearable devices. Additionally, we analyzed our data through the perspective of established personas for library patrons to determine if purpose in visiting the library had any effect on observed stress. For those who were expected to be more stressed, there was no significant difference between loud and quiet conditions. Our results showed that patrons in both quiet and loud conditions were significantly more stressed than their baseline measurements outside of the library, but equally so. This was consistent even accounting for differing purpose in library attendance. Our findings suggest that noisy environments in the library may not be as problematic for library patrons as is often perceived.