Vernon Area
Public Library
In an effort to bring quiet, private space to a busy public building, the Vernon Area Public Library turned to Pillar Booths.
For more than 50 years, the Vernon Area Public Library in Lincolnshire, Illinois, has been a cornerstone of its community, serving more than 44,000 residents across neighboring towns. The library’s light-filled architecture, rounded ceilings, and open, welcoming layout encourage collaboration and activity — but that openness comes with a familiar challenge: how to provide truly quiet, private spaces for patrons in such a lively environment.
Library Director Anne Rasmussen and Head of Library Operations Stephen Territo recognized the growing need for small, private, distraction-free spaces that could support the full spectrum of patron activities — from studying and tutoring to making a quick phone call or joining a virtual meeting. The library’s two study rooms were booked solid nearly every day, and staff noticed that patrons often needed a place for phone or Zoom calls that could otherwise disrupt others in shared areas.
The open areas of the library present their own challenges with sound. The booths give us an opportunity to provide quiet spaces in this big, open floor plan.Stephen Territo, Head of Library Operations
Two types of booths were added: a one-person booth near the main entrance and café area, and a two-person booth in the children’s section. Each quickly found its audience. The one-person booth became the go-to spot for adults and teens taking phone calls or joining online meetings, while the two-person booth drew a good mix of uses — tutoring sessions, kids working together on homework, and children using the space for reading or playing.
Recognizing the broader potential of the booths, the library also installed a booth in a staff-only area on the second floor, giving employees a quiet, private place for Zoom calls and committee work. “Our staff often work in rooms with several other people,” Anne said, “so having a private space for work calls is crucial.”
Exceeded expectations Patrons quickly adopted the booths as dedicated workspaces, using them in ways the team hadn’t anticipated.
Children engaged In the children’s section, the two-person booth supports focused tutoring, group homework, and quiet reading.
Staff empowered A staff-only booth on the second floor gives employees a private space for Zoom calls and committee work.
Built into the future The booths worked so well that the library’s architects are now designing them into future renovation plans.
“Even if we had a dozen study rooms, they would still be used constantly.”Anne Rasmussen, Library Director
“Allow for some flexibility when prescribing how the booths are to be used, because patrons may find them useful in ways other than you had imagined.”Anne Rasmussen, Library Director
