TURBULENCE IN THE LIBRARY

ABSTRACT:

There is a small library in the south west corner of the second floor in the AJLC center.

The 400 sq. ft. room features a large south facing window as well as clerestory windows on the West and North sides. This space stores resource materials in stacks on the East and West sides. It also contains two computers on the North end as well as one in the middle of the room.

In response to a few occupants’ complaints we decided to investigate this space.

QUESTIONS:

1. Why are the occupants uncomfortable using the library?

2. How does the air-conditioning operate?

3. What are the air-flow patterns in the room with or without the HVAC operating system?

4. What do the sensors control?

5. How effective are the sensors?

6. Are the transom windows operable?

7. Are the transom windows effective?

8. Do the west facing windows contribute to the glare conditions and heat gain?

9. Is artificial lighting necessary during day-time?

HYPOTHESIS:

There is a 10 degree temperature difference within the library due to heat stratification between the floor and the ceiling.

During the middle of the day there is sufficient task lighting in the library without the use of electrical lights.

Blinds up:

DF = 2.8

Blinds down but open:

DF = 1.6

Blinds closed

DF = .6

Lights on:

DF = 1.6