Noise Policy

Purpose

 Rod Library provides a variety of study and academic work environments for library users. To ensure that we meet our users’ needs this Sound Policy was created to give guidelines on the acceptable sound levels of our spaces. 

Scope

This policy includes all publicly available spaces in the Rod Library building.  This does not include the TEACH Studio in Schindler Education Center.

Definitions

  • None

Rod Library

Policy

Policy Statement

Rod Library provides a variety of study and academic work environments for library users. To ensure that we meet our users’ needs, this Sound Policy was created to give guidelines on the acceptable sound levels of our spaces. All library users are responsible for choosing an area in the building that best fits their academic and research needs and showing consideration for others. Users should not choose areas where their work will disturb others or where the permitted activities of others may disturb them.

Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices

Library users should set their cell phones to vibrate or silent when entering the building and turn off any audible alerts on laptops and other devices. Stairwells should not be used for phone conversations since this area amplifies sound.

Headphones and Ear Buds

Headphones or ear buds should be used to listen to sounds or audio on portable devices or computers, unless the user is in a listening and viewing room or seated on the second floor. Sound or audio should be played at a level so as not to disturb others.

Tours and Special Events

Some noise is to be expected during tours and special library events. When possible, tours and events will be announced through the Library’s social media and homepage in advance.

Please report disturbances to Library Services on the main (second) floor, call or text (319) 273-2838. Ear plugs are available at Library Services upon request as needed.

Floor Designations

First Floor (lower level) - Medium Sound Floor

Medium sound levelStudy tables and carrels are located on this floor which also holds the Periodical Collection, Government Documents and Maps Collections, and UNI Museum.

  • Conversations are permissible with low voices.
  • Cell phone texting and talking with low voice levels are allowed.
  • Group work is permitted.

Second Floor (main level) - High Sound Floor

High sound levelActive learning takes place on this floor, which has a large number of collaborative work stations, tables, booths, and a few meeting rooms. The Learning Commons and Book Bistro Cafe are located on this floor.

  • Conversations are permissible at reasonable indoor speaking volume.
  • Group work is encouraged on this active learning floor.
  • Cell phone texting and talking at reasonable indoor speaking volume are permitted.

Third Floor - Medium Sound Floor

Medium sound levelGroup study rooms and lounges, tables, and individual study carrels are located on this floor, along with the Special Collections and University Archives, CIEP & ESL Collection, and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning offices.

  • Conversations are permissible with low voices.
  • Cell phone texting and talking with low voice levels are allowed.
  • Group work is permitted.

Fourth Floor - Quiet Floor

Quiet floorThis floor contains many individual study carrels, study tables, and group study rooms. The Fine and Performing Arts Collection is also on this floor.

  • Whispered conversations are permissible.
  • Cell phone texting is permitted.
  • Individual work is permitted.
  • NOTE: Medium Sound is acceptable in the Fine and Performing Arts Collection.

Medium Sound is permitted in group study rooms, instruction rooms, conference rooms, and meeting rooms, which are located on all floors of the building. These rooms are not sound proofed and noise will travel to bordering rooms and to the open areas. Groups or individuals in study rooms who are disruptive will be asked to comply with this Sound Policy. If further complaints are made the individuals may be asked to give up their room or leave the building.

Approval and Revision History

  • Date Issued: 11/27/2014
  • Date Last Updated/Reviewed: 04/23/2026
     
  • Approved By: Dean’s Advisory Group
  • Responsible Party: Dean’s Office