Evaluation of Natural Lighting in the Digital Library Building: A Preliminary Study Using Lux Meter from East and West Directions Mirzal Yacub (1*), Irma Novrianty Nasution (2), Meuthia Fadila (3)
1,2,3) The Building Engineering Education Department of Faculty of Engineering of Universitas Negeri Medan, Indonesia 20221
*mirzalyacub[at]unimed.ac.id
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.
Keywords: Natural lighting- Lux meter- East and west orientation- Comfort- Digital library
