Conclusion:

The illuminance levels during the evening are inadequate for a comfortable prolonged use of the space.

Our hypothesis was supported through our analysis of the data we collected. During the daylight hours, the light levels are recorded at the higher end of the comfort level for reading rooms. With the utilization of controlling devices such as shades, the illuminance levels average out in the recommended levels during the day. With the current luminaires installed in the space, the recorded levels fall below the acceptable illumination levels during the evening. In order to make the space meet standard acceptable levels during evening hour, it would require 9.6 of the luminaires currently in use to be installed in the room. This doesn't seem to be the most appropriate and cost effective solution, a better solution would be to install a directional style of luminaire to provide a greater concentration of light on the areas that necessitate a higher level of illumination.

Proposal:

This could be achieved by the removal of the existing luminaires, and the installation of either surface mounted, pendant, or recessed halogen luminares in the ceiling. These would provide an even wash of light on the work surfaces, and the book stacks. Surface mounted luminaires would allow for the best user controlled environment. The lighting environment could be altered to suit each individual user instead of controls to suit the entire room environment. This solution would be the most cost effective of the three solutions. If this application could not be used, another alternative would be to install pendant lights, and remove the existing indirect halide luminaires. Pendant lights would provide indirect/direct light in the room and the source would be closer to the work surface providing the adequate light needed for the assumed tasks. The third solution would be to install recessed halogen luminares in the ceiling. This would bring the room up to code and provide the necessary light for the users.

Alternative Solutions:

Here are a few alternative solutions implemented, and a theoretical example of how they impact the space.