The Leo and Dottie Kolligian Library, a heavily used complex in the heart of the campus, earned its “Gold” certification in the “LEED for New Construction” (LEED-NC) category. It was recognized by the USGBC for meeting or exceeding a wide range of design, construction and operating standards associated with environmentally responsible development.
The USGBC is an independent, nonprofit organization that rates buildings under its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. It uses a five-tier performance scale and awards points for meeting or exceeding standards on a variety of sustainability measures. “Gold” is the second-highest tier of achievement.
“The Kolligian Library is the signature building on campus and the focal point of daily campus activity,” said Mark Maxwell, LEED coordinator for the campus. “It is noteworthy that such an attractive, highly functional building can be designed to meet or exceed very high environmental standards.”
The library building houses the campus library, administrative offices, classrooms, a coffee bar, the bookstore and a large student lounge.
“Years ago, campus planners set the unprecedented goal of earning LEED Silver certification or higher for the entire UC Merced campus,” said Thomas Lollini, associate vice chancellor for physical planning, design and construction. “Despite numerous challenges, we’ve managed to exceed this goal on two of our most significant facilities, and we are hoping for similar outcomes on others. Two projects currently in the certification process appear to be headed for Gold.
“This is extremely gratifying not only because we’re helping protect the environment in our own community but also because we’re learning so much that can be applied to development throughout the Valley and beyond. It has been our intention that UC Merced would become a living laboratory of responsible, easily replicable development practices from which others can readily benefit – a goal we have now achieved.”
The university’s first building complex, the Central Plant facility, earned the USGBC “Gold” rating in 2007. Another campus facility, the Garden Suites Housing and Lake View Dining complex, was awarded “Silver” certification, also in 2007.
In awarding its “Gold” rating to the Kolligian Library complex, the USGBC said the facility meets or exceeds performance standards in a wide range of categories, including efficient energy and water usage; use of recycled construction materials, certified wood and local/regional content; effective use of ambient light and ventilation; use of low-emitting materials; minimal site disturbance and other factors. The facility earned its highest score (10 points on a scale of 1 to 10) for energy performance.
The LEED point system assigns credits for 69 different measures of sustainability. Ratings are based on the total number of points awarded, as follows: 0-25 points, not certified; 26-32 points, base certified; 33-38 points, Silver; 39-51 points, Gold; 52-69 points, Platinum.
To learn more about UC Merced’s Environmental Stewardship Program, visit http://www.ucmerced.edu/about_ucmerced/environmentalstewardship.asp.
For more information about UC Merced, visit www.ucmerced.edu.
UC Merced opened September 5, 2005, as the 10th campus in the University of California system and the first American research university of the 21st century. The campus significantly expands access to the UC system for students throughout the state, with a special mission to increase college-going rates among students in the San Joaquin Valley. It also serves as a major base of advanced research and as a stimulus to economic growth and diversification throughout the region. Situated near Yosemite National Park, the university is expected to grow rapidly, topping out at approximately 25,000 students within 30 years.
Note to editors: For pictures of the Kolligian Library, call (209) 228-4432 or e-mail vadrover@ucmerced.edu.