[Publib] background music in libraries

[Aaron Smith]

I had been trying to refrain from commenting on this thread, because I think
my situation unique, but I've not heard anyone comment from the staff point
of view.

In a past public service role as a reference librarian in small branch
libraries of a larger county system, I found it very difficult to work with
background music. I am a musician, and have that stereotypical male struggle
with multitasking. I found it very difficult to concentrate on interactions
with patrons while music was playing in the "background." The staff members
at these local branches were always kind enough to turn off the music when I
was working, for which I was very grateful. I think it meant better service
to our users at the time.

Just another perspective,

Aaron Smith
Allen County Public Library
Fort Wayne, Ind.

>
> One of our smaller libraries has a radio playing background music in the
> library.  Generally it's been well-received but some people don't care for
> it.  The director would appreciate comments--pro & con--of other small
> libraries that have tried this.
>
>
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