Project Goals
Ivy Stacks, UVA’s library repository, opened in 1994 to meet the University’s storage needs for its growing collections. 2RW delivered sustainable MEP engineering services for the design (Phase I) of the new facility. Over the years, a number of renovations improved the longevity, accessibility, and usability of the University’s collections, positioning it to be a shared print repository for the State of Virginia.
In 2017, the University embarked on a major expansion (Phase II) of the facility in anticipation of the University’s Alderman Library renewal. This project doubled Ivy Stacks’ storage capacity, modernized systems, and provided an on-site reading room for researchers.
Services
Sustainable MEP/FP engineering services that 2RW provided as part of the Phase II expansion project include:
- A project formulation report which guided the expansion planning.
- On-site field investigations to assess existing MEP/FP equipment and systems and to develop recommendations for the incorporation of PV panels.
- Design of mechanical systems with specialized equipment to maintain 55 degree temperature and 30% relative humidity year-round to protect a variety of media formats.
- Design of high-efficiency LED lighting with integrated occupancy sensors which communicate remotely across wireless mesh network.
Results
State-of-the art MEP/FP systems which incorporate PV solar power generation create an optimal preservation environment in which the facility benefits from improved environmental conditions with the lowest possible energy consumption.
