Eckerd College Armacost Library and Technology Center / Multi-story new precast construction / 55,000 GSF
The new multi-story Signature Building serves as the core structure and first step toward the implementation of their new campus master plan. The new library and technology center features a central tower visible throughout the campus and a spectacular window wall overlooking a campus pond. Providing space for over a quarter million volumes, the library contains 4.5 linear miles of open shelving, 17 group study rooms, a 24/7 computer lab also used for library instruction, multimedia production and training lab, reference and reading rooms, a lanai located adjacent to a vending area and two-story reading lounge. A multi-purpose conference and meeting room services the 30 administration/support offices.
As the technology hub for the entire campus, it features a Tier III Data Center, 58 computer stations with 24/7 wireless access throughout including the surrounding exterior all protected by state-of-the-art FM-200 fire-suppression systems.
Located in a Coastal Zone A area, the Library is precast construction built to FEMA standards and hardened to withstand a Category 5 storm event and elevated 14 feet above mean sea level. A backup generator provides power to the computer server room and essential systems when power is lost. Constructed to LEED Green Building standards, all systems are regulated by “Smart” building energy management systems.
