If you can’t find peace in a library, where can you? But with activities from group study sessions to children’s programs, a loud library isn’t so strange these days.

The fact is, background noise competes for your attention with the things you need to concentrate on.

Research has found that stress from background noise “may decrease higher brain function, impairing learning and memory”.

So what can you do about it? There are a few approaches you could take… 

In this article, we look at loud library hacks. We will present you with the best practical ideas, earphones to block out the noise, and mental strategies for coping in a loud library. 

Skip to:

• Practical ideas 
• Loud library: 3 best earphones to beat the noise
• Mental strategies for coping with a loud library

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Practical ideas

Whether you have an assignment to finish, research to do, or are just in need of a nice quiet read – don’t just accept a loud library.

With a bit of ‘library smarts’ and some flexibility, you can find the solace you are looking for. Consider the following:

Choose your spot wisely

Choose upper floors whenever possible, they tend to be less populated. Also, try to seek corner spots away from high-traffic areas, especially those near windows.

If you find yourself in a spot with a lot of foot traffic coming past, position yourself with your back to pathways to minimize visual distractions.

Then there is the table you choose – look for study carrels or individual desks rather than shared tables; for obvious reasons.

Timing matters

Early mornings typically offer the quietest environment, especially right when the library opens. Late evenings can also often see reduced activity as families and study groups head home. But in general, there is more chance of group activities in the evening than early morning.

Have you tried mid-morning on weekdays? Depending on the library, it can actually be surprisingly peaceful between the morning rush and lunch crowds. 

You can take a sneak peek at your local library’s event schedule and plan around children’s programs or community meetings

Make your own space 

As much as possible, try to create your own sanctuary. Scout out designated quiet zones or silent study rooms. You could also reserve private study rooms in advance when available

Explore different sections of the library – literature and reference areas tend to be quieter than popular fiction or children’s sections. 

And a mini barrier may actually help you concentrate, even though it doesn’t block noise too much. You can create a mini-barrier using strategically placed books or your laptop screen.

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Loud library: 3 best earphones to beat the noise

Earphones are an age-old way of concentrating and getting some work done in a loud environment. 

Noise canceling earphones are better because they mean you don’t have to turn the volume right up. You can block out the distractions and keep your audio at volume that won’t fry your brain.

Whether you are doing math to Mozart or reading Mark Twain with some Taylor Swift in the background, noise canceling earphones can make a difference. We recommend noise-cancelling headphones in particular, and below we have picked out three of the best with a sensible budget:

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 

If you want noise-canceling earphones, why not go the whole hog and get some excellent sound quality – for a very fair price?

The reason they are your friend in a loud library is the CustomTune technology which adapts sound by analyzing each of your ears – that’s what’s behind the Full Noise Cancelation mode. Background noise is also shut out by clever noise-rejecting microphones. Basically, these slick earbuds will work to ensure that you don’t get distracted in the loudest of libraries.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds feature spatial audio that will elevate your sound to a breathtaking level – whether it’s music or spoken word. 

You’ll get five different listening modes (including Aware Mode, which is the opposite of Full Noise Cancelation mode)  and 6 hours of listening time on a full charge – which stacks up well against the competition.

Oh, and there is a microphone, of course, for hands-free Bluetooth chats.

Key features

• ANC noise canceling
• Premium sound quality
• Multipoint Bluetooth for seamless device switching

2. Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise Canceling Earbuds

Another pair of earbuds from a trusted brand in the mid-price range, offering noise canceling technology and super sound for a fair price.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise Canceling Earbuds use AI to block out the noise. They adjust to your surroundings automatically, using mini microphones to block out the chatter in your loud library. There is also a bone conduction sensor to help your voice get picked up clearly during Bluetooth calls… but as we know, no calls allowed in the library!

Other than that, it’s worth pointing out that these Sony earbuds have a longer battery life than the Boses above, giving you 8 hours on a full charge.

They are also eco-friendly, having been manufactured from recycled plastic.

Key features

• AI noise canceling
• 8 hour battery
• Eco-friendly

3. Urbanista Infinite Battery Solar

If you think AI noise canceling is smart, how about never needing to charge your headphones? The Urbanista Infinite Battery Solar can build up a massive 80 hours of power just from you being outdoors. And what’s more, it features hybrid active noise canceling technology to keep the noisy library members at bay.

First, the noise canceling bit – this beauties feature the ANC technology you’ll be familiar with from other earphones; it basically gives you immersive audio that cuts out background noise for fewer distractions. There is also an Ambient Sound Mode that makes you more aware of what is around you (for outside the library).

If you prefer the cup-style headphones to earbuds, this is a great noise-canceling option for a budget-friendly price.

The foam on the ear shells is also noise canceling, to back up the ANC technology

Key features

• ANC technology
• Solar powered
• Comfortable fit
• Excellent value

Tips for using noise-canceling earphones

👉 Test different volume levels to find your sweet spot

👉 Consider combining methods (earplugs with over-ear headphones for maximum isolation)

👉Use white noise or study music at low volumes to mask irregular sounds

👉 Take regular breaks to avoid ear fatigue

👉 Keep backup batteries or charging cables handy

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Mental strategies for coping with a loud library

Sometimes the best defense against noise in a library – or anywhere you want to concentrate – is a strong mental game. 

Here’s how to build your concentration muscles and maintain focus despite distractions:

Mindset conditioning

Tell yourself to accept that perfect silence is rare in modern libraries. Recognize that some background noise can actually enhance focus.

Why not view occasional disruptions as opportunities to practice concentration, and understand that adaptation takes time and patience?

Focus-building techniques

Have you heard of the Pomodoro Technique?

It involves working in 25-minute focused bursts, taking short breaks between sessions, and then using these intervals to change locations (or change spots in the library). Then gradually increase the session’s length as your concentration improves.

It’s not rocket science, but it can work.

Creating mental boundaries

This involves giving yourself, and others around you in the library signals that you are not here to mess around:

• Break large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks

• Use visual cues (like noise-canceling headphones) to signal “do not disturb”

• Maintain a clean, organized workspace to reduce mental clutter

Adaptive strategies

Identify your peak concentration hours and plan accordingly. Match tasks to noise levels – this means saving complex work for quieter times.

You can develop different strategies for different noise types, and as you stick it out in the library, you’ll gradually build resilience.

Working with library staff

Everything in a loud library might annoy you, but remember – the staff there can be one of your keys to coping. 

Aim to build positive relationships with librarians and staff; learn about quiet zones and policies, inquire about peak times and busy periods, and provide constructive feedback about noise concerns

The final word: Routine is everything

Developing a consistent library routine can help you adapt to and manage varying noise levels more effectively. Regular visits at specific times help you learn the rhythm of the space and anticipate potential noise issues. 

Creating a routine can help you establish a sense of structure and predictability in your library visits, making it easier to focus and concentrate. Set aside specific times each day to visit the library, and choose a consistent study spot where you feel comfortable and productive.

Building relationships with other regular library users can also create an informal community that respects quiet study needs.