Episode 21: Read 'em and Weep
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One of the best things to do in the world is cozying up to a big book for some marathon reading, but a bad reading spot can spoil the day. On this episode of Hang Your Hat learn how to create a reading spot that is perfectly suited to you.
Creating the Perfect Reading Spot
(Listen to the show for additional information about creating the perfect reading spot.
Reading Chair
- Upholstered: Good Fabric choices are velvet, twill, cotton, linen, leather, soft indoor/outdoor fabric
- Seat Cushion: 1.5 to 2 inches thick with compressible top layer and firm bottom layer
- Seat Back Height: Tall enough to support trunk and head (36 inches will work for most people)
- Seat Back Angle: 100 to 110 degrees, or quite reclined
- Seat Depth: Depth at which the seated person’s knees are bent at a 90-degree angle, the feet conformably reach the floor, and the body is supported by the chair back
- Seat Width: At least wide enough for the seated person to sit comfortably with a few inches to spare. Seats that are considerably wider than the seated person may be desirable and do not detract from the seat’s comfort.
- Leg Height: Height at which the seated person’s knees are bent at a 90-degree angle and the feet rest comfortably on the floor. Ottomans can compensate for imperfect leg height.
- Arm Rests: Cushioned, do not impact elbows
Reading Light
- Ambient Light: The room at large should be well light to reduce eye fatigue.
- Task Light: Somewhat diffuse, but focused primarily on the reading material.
- Task Light Brightness: Will vary by age. At least 450 lumens is recommended for children. The brightness needed to read comfortably will increase with age. An adjustable bulb is recommended.
- Task light shade: Translucent Shade. Good shade materials include silk, linen, and parchment.
- Task Light Positioning: Slightly behind and to the side of the reader just above eye level.
Nice Additions to your Reading Area
- Side Table: For holding snacks and a drink
- Blankets and/or pillows: To increase the cozy factor
- Rug: To differentiate the reading area as it’s own special space
- Book Storage: A basket or bookshelf to hold additional reading material.
Music:
Sources:
- https://www.illumine.co.uk/2008/06/creating-ideal-conditions-for-efficient-reading/
- https://www.thespruce.com/create-a-bedroom-reading-nook-350513
- https://www.homedit.com/essentials-for-reading-nook/
- http://www.nytimes.com/1986/04/10/garden/expert-advice-on-selecting-a-good-reading-lamp.html
- https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/home/how-to-choose-the-perfect-reading-chair/2016/03/16/ffe02046-e53c-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html?utm_term=.cc09784370c8
- https://www.decaso.com/blog/what-makes-the-perfect-reading-chair/
- https://www.roomandboard.com/blog/2017/04/iso-the-perfect-reading-chair/
- http://www.readingrockets.org/article/benefits-audiobooks-all-readers
- http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2016/08/listening-to-a-book-instead-of-reading-isnt-cheating.html
- http://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/article/developing-reading-skills/literacy-benefits-listening
- http://www.ala.org/conferencesevents/celebrationweeks
- http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/dea3250flipbook/dea3250notes/sitting.html
- http://sciencenordic.com/origin-fiction
