Research Article
Evaluation of Natural Lighting in the Digital Library Building: A Preliminary Study Using Lux Meter from East and West Directions
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.4108/eai.16-9-2025.2360992, author={Mirzal Yacub and Irma Novrianty Nasution and Meuthia Fadila}, title={Evaluation of Natural Lighting in the Digital Library Building: A Preliminary Study Using Lux Meter from East and West Directions}, proceedings={Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Innovation in Education, Science, and Culture, ICIESC 2025, 16 September 2025, Medan, Indonesia}, publisher={EAI}, proceedings_a={ICIESC}, year={2026}, month={3}, keywords={natural lighting; lux meter; east and west orientation; comfort; digital library}, doi={10.4108/eai.16-9-2025.2360992} }- Mirzal Yacub
Irma Novrianty Nasution
Meuthia Fadila
Year: 2026
Evaluation of Natural Lighting in the Digital Library Building: A Preliminary Study Using Lux Meter from East and West Directions
ICIESC
EAI
DOI: 10.4108/eai.16-9-2025.2360992
Abstract
This preliminary study evaluates natural daylight intensity entering the reading rooms of the Digital Library at Universitas Negeri Medan from the east and west orientations. Light measurements were taken periodically using a lux meter from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM over five working days. The results indicate a significant variation in light intensity between the two orientations. Eastern windows exhibited peak illuminance around 09:00–10:00 AM, while western windows reached their maximum around 03:00–04:00 PM. This fluctuation impacts users thermal and visual comfort, with reported warm and glare issues in both morning and afternoon sessions. The findings highlight the need for architectural interventions such as automated blinds or sun-shading devices to optimize passive lighting. This study serves as an early reference for designing daylight-responsive buildings in tropical educational environments, supporting both energy efficiency and user comfort.
