veniently controlled and easily maintained, should be circuited
and switched to permit partial use of artificial light to supplement
natural lighting in large areas.

 Decoration
 In choosing the colors for walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture
for a materials center, the total effect must be kept in mind so
that the result is harmonious, inviting, and pleasant, and in
conformity with accepted standards for both natural and artifi-
cial light conditions. Reflection factors of ceiling and wall finishes
appropriate to the natural and artificial lighting design must be
provided to assure satisfactory lighting conditions. Light shades
of any colors providing the required reflection factors may be
used in the decorating scheme. Choice of colors for the walls may
depend on the amount and direction of natural light, orientation,
and internal arrangement of rooms or areas as well as personal
preferences.
 Wall colors need not be confined to the delicate pastels that
were once considered as the only colors suitable for library
quarters. Muted shades of strong colors often produce extremely
interesting and satisfying surroundings. The use of contrasting
wall textures, especially for areas of general use, can add im-
measurably to the beauty of the materials center. This contrast
may take the form of one wall being brick and all the other walls
being painted in a harmonizing color.
 The design of the floor covering should blend with the rest
of the decor. Care should be taken to avoid a broken patchwork
design as it tends to foster a feeling of crowding and distraction.
Moreover, lighter colors and unbroken patterns reduce main-
tenance problems.

 Sound Control
 The nature and extent of use of the materials center make
it essential to provide a floor covering and ceiling that deaden
and absorb sound. Rubber tile or vinyl tile are satisfactory ma-
terials for the control of sound, ease in walking and standing,
and economic maintenance. The ceiling should be acoustically
treated with sound-absorbent plaster or other acoustical ceiling
materials such as perforated cane-fiber tile, fissured mineral-
fiber tile, textured fiber-glass tile, or others designed for this
purpose.