Taylor Family Digital Library receives LEED Gold certification

The Taylor Family Digital Library has become the latest building on campus to receive an international rating of sustainability excellence. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification status was announced on June 10, ranking the library among Canadian and world leaders in the sustainability of its design, construction, and operation.

"The university recognizes the importance of green buildings in promoting a healthy environment for learning and working," says Steve Dantzer, associate vice-president (facilities development). “As an institution, we are committed to providing exemplary spaces for students while minimizing environmental impact.” 

 

LEED is a rating system recognized internationally when assessing the environmental sustainability of building designs. Administered by the Canada Green Building Council, the LEED designation has also been given to four other buildings at the University of Calgary: Yamnuska Hall, the EEEL building, the Child Development Centre, and the Clinical Skills Building in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Key green building features of the TFDL include a stormwater management pond and rain garden, low-emitting Green Guard certified furniture, water efficient plumbing fixtures, advanced lighting systems and underfloor ventilation. In comparison to a conventional building, TFDL’s water-efficient fixtures use 48.8 per cent less water and its energy efficient features combined with the impact of the university’s district energy system result in energy cost savings of 73 per cent.

Tom Hickerson, vice-provost (libraries and cultural resources) and university librarian, was a key contributor to the conceptual planning of the building. “Right from the start, we were focused on providing students with innovative study spaces, exceptional service and access to the latest technology to enhance their learning experience,” explains Hickerson. “It’s a tremendous source of pride to know this building has also been recognized for innovation in the area of sustainability.”

The building benefits faculty, staff, students and alumni with large workrooms, audio rooms, recording and editing suites as well as a café. Energy efficiency and durability were important dimensions taken into consideration when designing the building’s skin. Materials for the project were selected carefully to ensure good thermal performance, and lower environmental impact from their manufacturing and transportation. 

While a number of behind-the-scenes features serve to reduce the library’s environmental footprint, students should be pleased to know that many of the design features also benefit them directly. “The underfloor air system does a better job of delivering fresh air to the breathing zone, keeping people alert and feeling good,” says Adam Stoker, a green building practitioner with the Office of Sustainability. "There is a growing body of research linking an improved indoor environment to better performance in schools and workplaces. The daylighting and views throughout TFDL make it a great place to study and might result in a better score on your next midterm!”

To learn more about TFDL’s green building features and building performance, visit TFDL and stop at one of its many electronic dashboards which include interesting facts and tips on how you can live more sustainably.

The TFDL will be a major focus for international guests this fall when the university hosts a conference called Designing Libraries for the 21st Century. Library innovators, planners and educators from Canada and the United States will gather to discuss the challenges and achievements of designing modern libraries and learning centres.

For more stories on how students, faculty and staff are stepping up together to turn SustainabilityON at the University of Calgary or to learn how you can become involved, visit www.ucalgary.ca/sustainability