TRC

TRC (Library System & Services / Toshokan Ryutsu Center) — Public Libraries / Spatial Aroma and Multisensory Comfort Research

Background

TRC (Toshokan Ryutsu Center) is a library-specialized company operating more than 600 public libraries across Japan.
Beyond book lending services, TRC continuously explores the evolving social role and value of next-generation libraries, developing new library experiences through multisensory approaches such as spatial aroma design and natural sound systems to enhance user comfort and wellbeing.
The project sought to redefine the library not simply as a place to access information, but as an environment where people can regulate their senses, quietly engage with their thoughts, and immerse themselves deeply in learning.
In collaboration with TRC, we designed sensory environments that support prolonged comfort, deep concentration, and reflective thinking. We also co-developed experiential programs utilizing Kansei Design to connect library experiences with learning and community engagement, creating library services that are deeply valued by local communities.

Research — Investigating Comfort and Emotional Value in Library Spaces

In a joint study presented at the Japan Society of Kansei Engineering in 2015, we examined comfort within libraries across Japan and identified the sensory elements necessary for creating comfortable library environments.
How do people calm their breathing, deepen concentration, and enter reflective states within the quiet atmosphere of a library?
We analyzed these physiological and psychological experiences from multiple perspectives, exploring the relationship between spatial environments, scent, and acoustic conditions.
Based on the findings, fragrances optimized for library environments were carefully selected and introduced into the spaces.
Because libraries are public environments, the scents were designed not to dominate the space, but to blend into it quietly and naturally.
Careful consideration was given to fragrance safety, diffusion levels, and sensory sensitivity, ensuring that the environment remains comfortable and inclusive for visitors of different ages and sensory characteristics.

Design — Multisensory Design Connecting Learning and Human Perception

To naturally connect fragrance experiences within the library to reading and learning, we developed a dedicated aromachology website.
We also planned and conducted Kansei workshops for library users, creating experiential programs that deepen curiosity toward local culture, knowledge, and learning through the five senses.
In addition, original fragrances designed specifically for reading environments were developed.
By allowing users to experience these fragrances in their daily lives, the sensory environment supporting concentration, creativity, and deep immersion in thought could extend beyond the library into everyday reading experiences.
The introduction of scent also transformed communication between library staff and visitors.
Fragrance became a catalyst for natural conversation, increasing emotional attachment to the space, enhancing the quality of the visitor experience, and strengthening the perceived value of the library itself.

Output — Toward Library Experiences Connecting Community and Sensibility

We also collaborated with local municipalities to plan and conduct events that incorporate sensory experiences through fragrance.
Through these activities, visitors could engage with local culture, climate, and collective memory in a sensory and emotional way, creating opportunities for deeper community learning and dialogue.
The library evolves beyond being simply a place to read books.
It becomes a space that quietly reconnects people with community, knowledge, and their own senses.
By integrating multisensory design, the time spent within the library transforms into an experience that deepens thought, regulates perception, and encourages quiet reflection.

What we did

• Joint research and verification of multisensory design in libraries
• Spatial aroma implementation for public libraries
• Planning and production of original aroma products
• Introduction of scent-based communication design
• Multisensory guidelines and website development
• Multisensory design training programs (for staff)
• Scent and Kansei Design workshops (for library users)
• Multisensory environmental education programs with municipalities (event planning and implementation)