Capital University’s Blackmore Library is a four-story structure, built in 1969. During more than 50 years of use, little had been done to update the interior to meet the needs of 21st century, techno-savvy students and faculty. Study spaces, adequate power, and data connections were all lacking and the dated finishes created a dark environment.

This project focused on transforming the first and second floors of the library into a new learning environment complete with new central information and circulation desk, reference and IT help, classroom spaces, cafe, and group study rooms.

The first floor is open 24-hours providing students with late-night access to social learning spaces and digital information. Tec Inc. provided electrical improvements such as additional general-purpose receptacles throughout both floors, new floor box locations, and branch circuit wiring for lighting and mechanical equipment. Some front-end work was required at the electrical distribution to clean up grounding issues and the reliability of the service. With the changes in configuration and student activities, a new ceiling and lighting were provided throughout.

Ardra Zinkon, the owner of Tec’s lighting design affiliate, Tec Studio, completed an energy-efficient plan that met the building’s needs and was convenient and easy to control. The result has provided much-improved aesthetics, visibility and substantial energy savings. Technology and security system locations for the building were increased and new equipment was provided.

Mechanically the challenge was to improve human comfort during both the warm and cool seasons without replacing the building’s entire mechanical system. Tec’s solution was to identify major problem areas and replace the boxes, piping and valves to ensure the proper airflow. A review of the operational procedure of the central plant resulted in a change of schedule that minimized the comfort issues as well as improved efficiency.