Carol G. Belk Library and Information Commons
Appalachian State University
The 231,000 SF Carol G. Belk Library and Information Commons is a technology-rich “information center” for the 21st century. It also happens to be the most sustainable building on campus at Appalachian State University. Pease designed the library in association with Shepley Bulfinch Richardson and Abbott.
The library incorporates state-of-the-art computer and telecommunications technology, offering a full range of traditional and electronic information resources. Lounge seating, cyber café, 24-hour study facility, numerous group study rooms, electronic classrooms and a multimedia authoring center create a warm, inviting environment that offers a wealth of resources to the university and community.
An environmentally-controlled Special Collections Reading Room houses the renowned W.L. Eury Appalachian Collection and other rare books and materials. A cold storage room preserves photos and film.
Sustainable design features include an energy-efficient HVAC system comprised of multiple built-up air handlers with VFD fan operation; direct digital temperature, humidity, building pressure and carbon dioxide/IAQ controls; OA energy recovery units; variable speed centrifugal chiller; cooling tower and waterside economizer.
An 115,060 GSF parking deck serves the Belk Library. The 5-level, 300-car deck is a post-tensioned, poured-in-place concrete structure with a foundation on caissons.
