SPACE DESIGN | introvert

Designing Library Spaces for Introverts

Public spaces and work environments across the Country are renovating and revamping their spaces to become more efficient, accommodate more people, and foster collaboration and communication (Feintzeig, 2014). For the public library this equates to open floor plans that allow for more personal interaction (larger programming spaces) and less physical resources as more materials become available online. However, not everyone who uses the library is looking for an open, collaborative space to do their work and research or hang out. For those with an introverted personality type, too much stimulation causes them to be uncomfortable, easily overwhelmed and less productive than their extroverted partners (Steelcase, 2017). In order to make the library a welcoming place for all individuals, it is important to address design elements that benefit all personality types.

Susan Cain and Steelcase

The Susan Cain Quiet Spaces project provides four design principles from their website that they consider important to incorporate in order to empower introverts to make full use of a work space.

Permission to be alone. Private, quiet spaces free from interruption support focus and innovation, providing a respite from an otherwise highly stimulating workplace. Making these spaces available to introverts signals that the organization understands and respects their need to work differently.
Control over the environment. Introverts are more sensitive to stimulation and have a greater need for control over their environment. They also have a lower tolerance for external forces such as noise and light, so it’s important for them to be able to control these elements in the workspace.
Sensory balance. Contrary to what one might expect, introverts seek sensory stimulation, but often in the form of warm, calming influences, such as natural woods and other organic materials.
Psychologically safe. Introverts often feel like they’re perpetually on stage, as if all eyes are on them. At times they need spaces where they can choose to be unseen, and where they can’t see others, for either rejuvenation or focus.

(Steelcase, 2017, Design Principles)

Applying Design Principles

There are many studies that have been done on design principles that can be applied to library spaces to properly facilitate things like traffic flow, circulation or age groups. By examining each of the four principles put together by Steelcase and Susan Cain (described above) and applying them towards a library setting; we can imagine possibilities for incorporating design with introverts in mind.

Permission To Be Alone

Many public libraries offer quiet study rooms that have a closed door; allowing patrons to book in advance like the Halifax Public Library (2017) reduces the anxiety of finding a designated spot to work. In a smaller space where private rooms are not available, positioning a table and chairs in a quiet corner of the library away from foot traffic is a great way to accommodate diverse personality types and those needing a quiet space. Research by Williams suggests that individual study carrels were the most popular type of furniture to be used by students while studying (2011). Offering a small amount of privacy in a public space can go a long way.
Many libraries give patrons access to a catalogue computer located away from the circulation desk for independent searching needs. By incorporating a public access computer into the layout of space we give patrons permission to search and place holds on their own.

Control Over The Environment

The ability to close a door or adjust the lighting or temperature in a quiet study space is ideal, however this may not be possible in a smaller library with limited space. For staff and patrons alike, multipurpose & movable furniture provides a way to open a space up for programming or large events, it also allows the space to be moved around afterwards to create smaller niches for independent study, research and reading.
Access to blinds on windows beside tables and seating can be another effective way to give patrons some individual control in a public space.

Sensory Balance

Choosing neutral paint colours and natural surface materials are an overall way to create a calm visual balance in a space.
Having task lamps available at computer, reading and study stations reduces the need for glaring overhead, fluorescent lights and also provides the element of control to each patron using that space.
Supplying earplugs or headphone sets to loan out for library use would be another helpful and inexpensive way to provide this element. Headphones block out excessive noise and also signify to others that the individual prefers to be left alone.

Psychologically Safe

In a public space, providing a haven where patrons can be completely secluded for a few minutes to recharge or focus may only be possible in the washroom. Individual bathrooms, as opposed to cubicles within a larger room, provide a quiet and private place to yourself (Gindin, 2016). In my own experience, I know introverts who choose the roomy and quiet accessible washroom over a cubicle filled communal space.
Providing a designated space for each age group (children, teen, adult and older adult) in the library gives individuals a sense of belonging and eliminates anxiety about choosing an appropriate place to hang out. While this doesn’t allow patrons to be completely alone, it may bring a sense of comfort, safety and inclusion.

Conclusion

Libraries can work to explore space design beyond open concept and collaborative environments that seem to be on trend. Ensuring that libraries achieve a balance in their space design by following principles that appeal to introverts is essential for them to be able to work effectively and feel included in a public space that they will choose to participate in. With careful consideration, public libraries can achieve a balanced design plan that incorporates the diversity of various personality types.

References

Feintzeig, R. (2014). For office introverts, a room of one’s own. Retrieved from https://blogs.wsj.com/atwork/2014/06/02/for-the-office-introvert-a-room-of-ones-own/

Gindin, M. (2016). Porcelain paradise: An introvert’s ode to the bathroom. Retrieved from https://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/01/porcelain-paradise-an-introverts-ode-to-the-bathroom/

Halifax Public Library. (2017). Library room booking policy. Retrieved from http://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/about/documents/policies/library-meeting-room.html

Steelcase. (2017). Susan Cain quiet spaces. Retrieved from https://www.steelcase.com/quiet-spaces/

Williams, S. M. 2011. An investigation of furniture use in a university library quiet zone. Ph.D. diss., Stephen F. Austin State University, https://www.lib.uwo.ca/cgi-bin/ezpauthn.cgi?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/1000458762?accountid=15115.