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The long-term place
of learning
Students often spend many hours of concentrated reading and working in libraries. A friendly
environment is thus just as important as lighting conditions that maintain focus over an extend-
ed period. An appropriate lighting concept noticeably increases the quality of stay and learning.
The harmonious light distribution between direct and indirect light creates the best conditions
for reading, researching, or working at a computer for extended periods. To ensure that library
visitors are not disturbed by other light sources, all luminaires should have exceptional glare
control (UGR ≤ 16/19). Microprismatic luminaire enclosures counteract direct and reflected glare
and are ideal for computer workstations or tables with glossy surfaces.
Above all, the eyes must not tire during long reading sessions. Using suitable suspended lumi-
naires and mobile floor luminaires or switchable table luminaires delivers an adequate lighting
level in reading areas of 500 lux at UGR ≤ 16/19. For extended, focused work, the standard
requires a modified illuminance of 750 lux for the reading area.
Accent lighting helps students orient themselves and find media more quickly. The emphasis
on rows of shelves and signage guides the eye and creates a spatial structure. Libraries in the
right light thus offer space for extensive research and individual in-depth study.
Lighting requirements (EN 12464-1)
• bookshelves: light intensity of at least 200 lx,
uniformity of 0.6
• reading area: light intensity of at least
500 lx - 750 lx, uniformity of 0.6
• good glare control at computer workstations
(UGR ≤ 19)
• good ambient lighting for building circulation
orientation and a luminance < 3000 cd/m²
• accent lighting for shelves / doors for targeted
perception
• balanced direct-indirect lighting for
concentrated work and reading
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