While the Sinclair Library is a great place to study, there are not many places where the sights and sounds of the library are blocked out. To potentially solve this problem, the library is officially testing a product called the “On-the-QT Phone Booth.”
Made by company Orangebox, the product is designed to cancel noise and allow for someone to be situated comfortably and privately for however long they need. Their “kink” shape gives proper control of sound and decreases the need for space adjustments. There are different models – both sitting and standing – purchasers can choose from. The booth also features outlets, a light, a comfort pad, and its own ventilation system.
The Clarion spoke to Debra Oswald, the director of the Sinclair Library, about this product and its potential.
Oswald stated that, despite the relatively low traffic on campus, there has been a high demand for the group study rooms in the library. While they’re meant for multiple students to use, individuals often use them. She also said that there may be a little discomfort surrounding attending and participating in Zoom classes in the library, particularly in the more open areas. The Orangebox booth gives students a more private option for doing so.
There is a bit of a trade-off with this, though: users don’t have as much space to spread out as they might in the rest of the library. Some students who have tried the booth have stated they felt claustrophobic. This could be an issue for taller people as well. However, the glass doors allow you to see outside of the booth and “still be part of what’s happening,” Oswald added.
Despite this potential drawback, the reaction to the booth has been mostly positive, with one student using the booth almost daily. A student with ADHD said that the booth helped them focus.
“There’s clearly a need that we weren’t meeting,” Oswald said.
Though Oswald had researched similar products, the “On-the-QT” stood out to her because of its “nice design” and “uniqueness.” She was sitting in the booth during our interview.
For the Sinclair Library to obtain these booths for permanent use, the administration must approve the proposed budget. Oswald reported that the library is at the beginning of this process. While the demo booth currently can only be checked out for two hours at a time, it is possible that the time will be extended should Sinclair purchase multiple booths.
To try out the booth, visit the library on the main campus in Dayton. It is located between the service desk and the cafe. The Sinclair Library will have the booth until mid-April. Be sure to fill out an electronic or paper survey to let Sinclair know how you feel about the booth! Feedback is extremely important in showing Sinclair that this is something of interest for students and faculty alike.
Carly Webster
Reporter