Carol G. Belk Library and Information Commons
Appalachian State University
The Carol G. Belk Library is a technology-rich "information center” nationally recognized for its green building design. Pease designed the library in association with Shepley Bulfinch Richardson and Abbott.
The 231,000 SF 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.
