📚WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) · International

Library Acoustic Design to WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound)

Libraries require ultra-low background noise for focused study while managing acoustic zoning between silent reading areas, collaborative zones, and public spaces. The target RT60 of 0.

TL;DR

Under WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound), a library of 150-250 m³ (typical dimensions 12m × 8m × 2.7m) requires an RT60 of ≤ 0.6s at 500-2000 Hz. Background noise must not exceed 35 dBA. WELL v2 Feature 74 applies to library spaces within WELL-certified buildings.

RT60 Target

≤ 0.6s

Noise Limit

35 dBA

STI Minimum

N/A

Frequency Range

500-2000 Hz

Specific Requirements

Parameter	Target	Clause Reference	Notes
Reverberation Time (RT60)	≤ 0.6s	S04	500-2000 Hz, Furnished, unoccupied, <500 m³
Background Noise Limit	≤ 35 NC	S01 Part 2	HVAC + building services, unoccupied
Frequency Range	500-2000 Hz	—	Octave bands for compliance assessment

Step-by-Step Compliance Calculation

1
Map WELL requirements to library zones
Identify Feature 74 requirements for enclosed rooms (RT60), open areas (masking), and background noise.
2
Design study room acoustics
Achieve RT60 <= 0.6s in enclosed study rooms with ceiling and wall treatment.
3
Specify low-level masking
Install sound masking at 38-42 dBA in open reading areas, shaped for speech frequency privacy.
4
Arrange WELL verification
Schedule performance verification testing by approved acoustic consultant for WELL certification.

Recommended Materials

Surface	Material Category	Min NRC	Coverage %
Ceiling	High-NRC ceiling tile	0.90	85%
Study carrels	Absorptive desk screen	0.80	100%
Floor	Carpet tile	0.30	100%

Browse the full acoustic materials database for absorption coefficients and product specifications.

Common Failure Modes

⚠️Sound masking too loud

Masking systems set above 42 dBA become consciously perceptible and distracting in library quiet zones.

⚠️Group study room leakage

Group study rooms with glazed partitions and gaps allow noise to disturb adjacent silent reading areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What RT60 does WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) require for a library?

WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) requires a reverberation time of ≤0.6s at 500-2000 Hz for library spaces. WELL v2 Feature 74 applies to library spaces within WELL-certified buildings. RT60 <= 0.6s for enclosed study rooms, background noise <= 35 dBA. Open reading areas benefit from sound masking at 38-42 dBA for speech privacy between study positions.

What is the maximum background noise level for a library under WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound)?

WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) sets a maximum background noise level of 35 dBA for library spaces. This includes noise from HVAC systems, building services, and external intrusion, measured with the room unoccupied. Exceeding this limit degrades speech intelligibility and occupant comfort.

How much acoustic treatment does a library need to comply with WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound)?

A typical library (150-250 m³) requires High-NRC ceiling tile (NRC ≥0.9) covering 85% of the ceiling as the primary treatment. Additional wall absorption on 2 surface(s) is typically needed. Use the AcousPlan calculator with the pre-loaded dimensions (12m × 8m × 3m) to calculate the exact absorption deficit for your room.

Calculate WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) Compliance for Your Library

Pre-loaded with typical library dimensions (12m × 8m × 3m) and an RT60 target of 0.5s per WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound). Enter your actual dimensions, select materials, and verify compliance instantly.

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