Libraries are often seen as beacons of knowledge and learning in a community. The sustainable building design of the Los Gatos Library in Los Gatos California takes that vision quite literally. Set among ample tree cover, the library is meant to resemble a lantern in the woods, both drawing attention to its interior and symbolizing a light in darkness.

The Los Gatos Library is LEED Gold certified, and emphasizes visible sustainable systems, allowing its occupants to monitor the building’s energy usage in real time. Glumac provided MEP engineering, and designed data/telephone, and audio-visual systems, and conducted the energy analysis. The building draws much of its lighting and energy from the sun, with 70% of the structure having access to natural lighting. The lengthy structure has a nearly transparent façade, and is oriented to capture northern sunlight. The daylight harvesting techniques used in the facility are optimized by a system of louvers on the south and west exposure areas to reduce direct solar glare and create a comfortable ambiance for reading and browsing the stacks. At night, a mixture of white and colored LED lights illuminate the building and allow it to stand out among the surrounding trees, providing the lantern effect.

A 40kw photovoltaic system provides energy for the Los Gatos Library, and its heated water is derived from a solar hot water system. Additionally, a raised access floor was designed to help provide more efficient and effective air distribution, and add to the overall level occupant comfort.

Size: 30,000 square feet
Construction Cost: $12.7 million
Project Completion: 2012
Architects: Noll & Tam Architects
Owner: Town of Los Gatos
Services: MEP Engineering, Technology Integration, Energy Analysis

Images courtesy of David Wakely