Try not to shush them loudly in a way that would seem condescending. This might make them want to continue being loud because you tried to embarrass them.
Try using one of these examples: “I’m sorry to be a bother, but would you mind keeping it down a bit?” “Hi. I hate to be that person, but I have a big test tomorrow that I’m trying to study for and I’d really appreciate it if you could tone it down a bit. Thanks!” “Would you mind moving to a different location? This is a quiet work space. Thank you!”
Don’t glare at them or make a mean face. This will only make the situation worse.
Generally, don’t try to talk to the kids directly. This will probably scare and creep them out or anger their parents since you not only scared their children, you also tried to discipline their kids.
Make sure you keep the sound down to a very low level because studying with headphones in has been found to decrease productivity.
An easy way to avoid the appearance of rudeness is by deflecting the blame onto yourself – like that it is your situation (the big test you have to study for, an important interview you need to prepare for, a severe headache you might have) that is the reason you are asking them to be quiet, not their own rude lack of respect for others.
If you don’t have anything else to do at the library while waiting for the rude people to leave, run any errands you may have that are close to where you are. Just be sure to get back before the library closes.
