Assessment of Indoor Thermal Comfort in Selected University Libraries In Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

University libraries are long-duration learning environment in which indoor thermal conditions can influence users’ comfort and the ability to sustain academic activities. A conducive and comfortable environment increases student’s attention and concentration, productivity therefore, these should be characterised with thermal comfortability. This study evaluated indoor thermal comfort in selected university libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria, focusing on users’ subjective perceptions and measured indoor environmental conditions. A mixed-method approach was adopted, combining questionnaire responses from 330 library users with objective measurements of air temperature, relative humidity and air velocity in five university libraries. Measurements were taken during morning, afternoon, evening and night periods on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Descriptive statistics and Mean Weighted Values were used to interpret users’ thermal sensation, while direct measurements were used to establish the prevailing indoor conditions. Findings revealed that afternoon was perceived as the warmest period, with an MWV of 3.33, while night recorded the coolest sensation (MWV = 2.19). Relative humidity was predominantly perceived as humid across all periods, while air movement was generally considered adequate, with an overall MWV of 3.01. Objective measurements recorded afternoon temperatures between 30.3°C and 31.2°C, morning relative humidity between 83.2% and 86.3%, and air velocity between 1.9 and 2.6 m/s across the libraries. The subjective and objective assessments showed broad correspondence, particularly for air temperature and relative humidity. The study concludes that the selected libraries experienced generally warm and humid conditions during important periods of use, although air movement was relatively acceptable. It recommends regular thermal monitoring, improved operational control of ventilation and cooling systems, and routine assessment of indoor environmental conditions to maintain acceptable library environments.