Post Occupancy Evaluation of Daylighting in Libraries: An Experimental Approach

Abstract

The study is plunge on the adequacy of lighting for Library activities in Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida library, Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola (IBB library). The library is a one storey building. Total enumeration of the spaces was executed. A digital light meter was used to evaluate the light level in the spaces as well as a digital camera for photographs. The major factor considered in the research is the level of illumination on the work plane in the interior of the building. The data collected was analyzed using tables and figures. Findings show that library area with natural lighting below 500 lux for office and reading halls as well as 20 lux for ancillary spaces amounts to 2262.32square meters (96.49% of the total library area). Dark zones in the building are apparent during power outages. Some recommendations from the research includes retrofitting of the building to allow for natural lighting as well as installation of USG majestic acoustical reflective ceiling panels to replace the former as well as replacement of light color glazed granite tiles with the terrazzo floor, and installation of roller shade blinds which can be easily controlled for optimum light penetration.