Harrisonburg, VA
JMU Carrier Library Renovation, Restoration, and Expansion
Scope of Services
MEP Engineering
JMU initiated the Carrier Library transformation to adapt its mission from a storehouse for print collections to an innovation, research, and learning hub supporting digital research. This project addresses aging infrastructure systems, the deficit of library space, and accommodates the extensive growth of the student population. The renovation aligns with JMU’s goals of improving accessibility, connecting the library to nearby buildings, and incorporating technology-rich spaces for teaching and collaboration. The new Carrier Library supports JMU’s status as a national university.
Services
2RW provided MEP engineering design for the substantial renovation and expansion of the iconic 1939 Carrier Library. The project focused on integrating modern, efficient systems while preserving the building’s historic integrity and adapting the library for contemporary uses and versatile spaces. Key design objectives also included enhancing accessibility and ensuring ease of maintenance.
To align with the architectural intent of the building, the MEP design was tailored to reflect the distinct eras of the original 1930s library, previous 1960’s and 1980’s additions and the new expansion, with mechanical systems designed to complement the design while preserving the historic character of the original structure. A new steam and chilled water plant was incorporated within the building to support the HVAC system, providing reliable service and aligning with the facility’s long-term maintenance goals. Quiet HVAC systems were implemented to minimize noise disruptions in study and reading areas. At the same time, temperature and humidity controls were carefully designed to protect rare books, archives, and other sensitive materials.
The redesigned Carrier Library now offers a comprehensive and accessible experience for all users. Student-focused spaces include study areas, reading rooms, consultation and group study rooms, and universally accessible restrooms on every floor, some of which are available 24 hours. The library also features a makerspace, experimental technology classroom, video and audio podcasting studios, Special Collections facilities, and a conservation lab for books and manuscripts that meets precise humidity and temperature control requirements.
To further enhance the user experience, the library includes social spaces, a staff lounge, and a Starbucks to accommodate extended study sessions. Dedicated areas for library instruction, educational technology, and digital scholarship ensure that the Carrier Library continues to serve as an essential resource for the campus community.
Image Courtesy Moseley Architects
Scope of Services
MEP Engineering
OWNER: James Madison University
TIMEFRAME: 2021 – 2025 (Est. Substantial Completion)
SIZE: 195,111 SF | 138,224 (reno), 56,887 (addn)
COST: $83.2 million
Highlights
Mechanical
- Consolidated to a central thermal utility plant; featuring a high-efficiency water-cooled cooling system and a new steam-to-hot water heating system
- Integrated total energy recovery systems within air distribution systems
- Humidification control systems designed for archives and rare books collections
- Specialty exhaust systems for solder stations, laser printers, woodshop equipment dust collection, and fume hoods dedicated to preservation activities
Electrical
- Consolidated electrical service for the original building, previous expansions, and the new addition
- Updated emergency power systems and distribution