Why are modern libraries and cultural centers choosing SONTE film over traditional blinds and curtains?

Modern libraries, media centers, museums, and other cultural institutions have undergone a major transformation. They are no longer just places for storing collections and quiet reading, but vibrant hubs of social life, hosting workshops, author events, lectures, exhibitions, and multimedia screenings. Instead of dark rooms filled with shelves, we now see open, glass-filled spaces flooded with natural light, architecturally impressive and welcoming to users.

But this open design also has its downsides. Large glass surfaces come with real challenges. Excessive sunlight leads to overheating and creates uncomfortable working conditions, while UV radiation causes paper to fade, damages covers, and accelerates the aging of collections. There is also the issue of privacy, both for staff and for event participants, who may feel uneasy in a fully glazed room.

What’s the alternative to curtains and blinds?

Curtains and blinds are still the default choice for many institutions, but in practice, they are becoming less and less functional. In modern libraries, cultural centers or museums, these types of window coverings quickly turn out to be problematic. First of all, they take up physical space. They block the windows, gather dust and are often difficult to use, especially in tall, glass-filled interiors.

From an aesthetic perspective, they also fall short. They disrupt minimalist architecture and make it harder to design exhibition or educational spaces. But the most serious concerns are functional. Curtains and blinds:

• they do not effectively block UV radiation, which negatively affects paper, ink, and other sensitive materials,
• they do not stop infrared radiation, which causes interiors to overheat in the summer, increasing air conditioning costs and reducing indoor comfort,
• they offer no flexibility in light control, they are either open or closed, limiting the ability to adapt the space to specific needs at any given moment.

Modern institutions need more than just basic window coverings. That’s why they are increasingly turning to SONTE smart film, a technology that integrates seamlessly with the glazing, preserves the interior’s aesthetics, and offers full control over privacy and natural light. It doesn’t take up extra space, doesn’t block the view, requires no maintenance, and operates with a level of precision and speed no traditional system can match.

SONTE liquid crystal film – how does it work?

SONTE film is an advanced PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology, also known as liquid crystal film or electric film. It works by changing the alignment of liquid crystal molecules when an electric current is applied. In practice, this means the film shifts from fully transparent to milky white, within less than a second, at the press of a button.

The user decides when and to what extent the film should provide privacy or diffuse light. The control system is exceptionally simple. The film can be operated:

• with a standard wall switch,
• with a remote control,
• via an app or a smart building system (Smart Home, BMS/BAS).

More advanced setups also offer a dimmer function that allows for gradual shading. This is a perfect solution when soft light diffusion is needed, such as during presentations, film screenings, or stage performances.

SONTE film can also serve as a projection surface. In its milky white mode, it functions like a screen, simply direct a projector at it to display films, graphics, or other multimedia content.

Importantly, the film can be installed on existing glazing. It doesn’t require replacing the glass or carrying out invasive renovation work. This makes it an excellent choice for historic or heritage buildings, as well as any space looking to avoid costly and time-consuming upgrades.

SONTE sun protection film, effective shield against radiation and heat

Large glass surfaces are a hallmark of modern architecture, but they also pose serious challenges when it comes to sunlight exposure. SONTE film acts as an advanced sun protection solution that tackles these issues head-on.

• It blocks up to 99% of UV radiation, which is responsible for fading books, covers, prints, and archival materials. This allows libraries, museums, and cultural centers to better protect their collections without the need to completely darken the space.

• It reduces up to 78% of infrared radiation, which causes interiors to overheat. This is especially important in multifunctional rooms, reading areas, and shared spaces, where thermal comfort directly affects work quality, attendance, and the overall visitor experience.

• It consumes only 5.5 W/h per m², making it one of the most energy-efficient solutions in its class. For comparison, that’s less than the average power usage of a TV on standby.

A solution compliant with building regulations

In public-use buildings such as libraries, media centers, cultural hubs, museums, or theaters, installation safety is absolutely essential. Every solution used must meet specific technical and legal standards defined by current building regulations and fire protection requirements.

SONTE film is certified as non-flammable, making it safe for use on fire-resistant glazing. This is especially important in evacuation areas, corridors, lobbies, and other zones where strict fire safety standards apply. Installing the film does not alter the technical parameters of the glass or affect its fire classification.

Additionally, the product is fully compliant with the Low Voltage Directive, which means the SONTE control system meets all electrical safety requirements, both in everyday use and during maintenance.

For public institutions, this is a major advantage, the product is ready for installation without the need for extra technical approvals or the risk of issues during inspections. It’s a solution that can be implemented with confidence, knowing it fully meets all legal requirements.

How SONTE supports modern cultural institutions – a real-life example

One example where SONTE technology has transformed everyday operations is a modern multimedia library that installed 564 m² of liquid crystal film across skylights, large windows, and glass facades.

With SONTE film in place, the library gained greater flexibility in managing its space. Staff can easily adjust the transparency of the glass depending on the current needs, whether it’s a workshop, a film screening, an author talk, or simply a regular day of work.

At the same time, the collections are now better protected from harmful UV radiation, which over time can cause books to fade and damage fragile materials.

The liquid crystal film installed on the facade glazing also unlocks new possibilities for communication and programming. In the near future, the library plans to use it as a surface for rear projection, allowing films and multimedia content to be displayed directly on the glass, no need for additional screens or visual barriers.

7 reasons why cultural institutions choose SONTE film

SONTE film is a technology that genuinely supports the operation of modern public spaces. Rather than overpowering the architecture, it enhances it—highlighting its character. It can be adapted to unusual glass shapes, customized in color, and even branded with an institution’s logo, all while maintaining visual consistency.

For libraries, media centers, museums, and cultural venues, this translates into clear, measurable benefits:

1. SONTE film provides effective protection against UV radiation, preventing books from fading and materials from deteriorating.
2. It reduces heat buildup and eliminates harsh glare, significantly improving comfort for both staff and visitors.
3. It allows for privacy when needed, for example during workshops, author events, or presentations.
4. It meets fire safety standards and can be safely installed on glazing in public-use buildings.
5. It supports a modern interior aesthetic by eliminating the need for curtains, blinds, or other visually heavy solutions.
6. It can serve as a projection surface, opening up new possibilities for content presentation and immersive visual experiences.
7. It is energy-efficient and maintenance-free, contributing to daily convenience and long-term cost savings.