DOCUMENT RESUME

ED 355 959 IR 054 519

AUTHOR Trinkley, MichaelTITLE Preservation Concerns in Construction and Remodeling

of Libraries: Planning for Preservation.INSTITUTION South Carolina State Library, Columbia.PUB DATE Sep 92NOTE 106p.

PUB TYPE Guides Non-Classroom Use (055) ReportsDescriptive (141)

EDRS PRICE MF01/PC05 Plus Postage.DESCRIPTORS Architects; Building Design; Building Plans; Check

Lists; Construction (Process); *Construction Needs;Cost Effectiveness; Engineers; *Facility Planning;*Library Facilities; Library Materials; *LibraryPlanning; Library Technical Processes; *Preservation;Records Management; Space Utilization; StructuralElements (Construction)

IDENTIFIERS *Remodeling

ABSTRACTTo help libraries and other holdings institutions

better incorporate preservation concerns in construction, renovation,and routine maintenance, various techniques are presented that allowpreservation concerns to be integrated. The following topics areconsidered: (1) site selection; (2) design of the building envelope;(3) the libra.7y interior; (4) floor coverings; (5) roofing materials;(6) electric and plumbing features; (7) lighting; (8) environmentalcontrols; (9) integration of fire protection and security concerns;(10) pest control; (11) use of book returns; and (12) landscaping.Cost concerns are discussed, explaining various cost analyses, therelationship between preservation and maintenance, and whypreservation costs provide long-term benefits. Designing forpreservation, while likely to increase the short-term capital costsof a new library building, will provide significant cost returns inlonger collection life and reduce long-term maintenance andreplacement costs associated with the library itself. Various phasesof architectural design and construction, and their relationship topreservation concerns, are briefly outlined to help avoid commonpitfalls in working with architects, engineers, and contractors.Eight figures and two tables illustrate the discussion. A list of 37resources for preservation is included; and four appendixes providespecific details about lighting and pesticide use, and a checklist ofpreservation concerns. (Contains 70 references.) (Author /SLD)

***********************************************************************

Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be madeiQ from the original document.***********************************************************************

Preservation Concernsin Construction and

Remodeling of Libraries:Planning for Preservation

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONOffice of Educational Research and improvement

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATIONCENTER (ERIC)

O This document has been reproduced asreceived from the parson or organizationoriginating it.

O Minor changes have been mode to improve

reproduction Quality.

Points of view or opinions stated in this docu-

ment do not necessarily represent OfficialOERI position or policy

SCUI1-1 CAROLINA

STATELIBRARY

It

I I PORTICO

I II I

fitI II II I

I II I

III

a

BEST COPY VAUBLE

2

"PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THISMATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY

James Johnson

TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCESINFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)."

PRESERVATION CONCERNS IN CONSTRUCTION AND REMODELING OFLIBRARIES: PLANNING FOR PRESERVATION

Michael Trinkley

Chicora Foundation, Inc.P.O. Box 8664 861 Arbutus Drive

Columbia, South Carolina 29202

Prepared For:South Carolina State Library

1500 Senate Street P.O. Box 11469Columbia, South Carolina 29202

803/734.8666

September 1992

This publication is funded by a Library Services and Construction Actgrant administered by the South Carolina State Library.

1992 by the South Carolina State Library. All rights reserved. No part of thispublication may be reproduced or transcribed in any form without permission of theSouth Carolina State Library, except for brief quotations used reviews. Full creditmust be given to the author and the South Carolina State Library.

The paper used in this publication meets the minimum requirements of AmericanNational Standard for Information Sciences - Permanence of Paper for Printed LibraryMaterials, ANSI Z39.48-1984. co

ABSTRACT

This study will help libraries and othersimilar holding institutions better incorporatepreservation concerns in such buildingactivities as new construction, renovations, androutine maintenance.

Intended for the non-specialist (ineither preservation or the building trades) thetext provides a variety of techniques whichallow preservation concerns to be integratedinto such topics as site selection, the design ofthe building envelope, the library interior,floor coverings, selection of roofing materials,electric and plumbing features, lighting,appropriate environmental controls,integration of fire protection and securityconcerns, pest control, use of book returns,and landscaping.

A section discusses cost considerations,explaining various cost analyses, therelationship between preservation andmaintenance, and why preservation costsprovide long -term benefits.

In a time of shrinking budgets,preservation is a strong ally of libraries.

ii

Designing for preservation, while likelyincreasing the short -term capital costs of anew library building, will provide significantcost returns in longer collection life, extendingthe life of both circulating and specialcollections - - ensuring the availability of thesematerials for patron use. In addition,incorporation of preservation criteria are alsolikely to reduce many of the long-termmaintenance and replacement costs associatedwith the library structure itself.

The various phases of architecturaldesign and construction, as well as theirrelationship to preservation concerns, arebriefly outlined to help librarians avoid manycommon pitfalls in working with architects,engineers, and contractors.

Finally, this study incorporatesessential reference materials, sources foradditional programming information, and a listof essential preservation considerations in thebuilding process.

cl

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Abstract ii

List of Figures vi

List of Tables vi

Acknowledgements vii

Executive Summary 1

Introduction 3Goal and Audience of this PublicationWhy Preservation?Organization and How to Integrate PreservationWhat this Publication Isn't

Site Location and PlanIntroductionRisk AssessmentsNatural Features

HurricanesEarthquakesTornadoesThunderstormsFloods

Man-Made Features

The Building EnvelopeIntroductionDesign FeaturesNon-environmental FeaturesTips for Renovation

The Library InteriorIntroductionFormaldehydePaints and CoatingsWood ProductsMetalsFabricsTesting

Floor Coverings and Floor LoadingFloors and PreservationFloor Loadings

iii

7

13

16

21

RoofingIntroductionPitched or Flat RoofsTypes of Roofing

ShinglesMetal Sheet RoofingSingle Ply or Membrane RoofingBuilt- Up Roofing

Roof Drainage

24

Electrical and Plumbing Concerns 29

Electrical IssuesPlumbing IssuesAdditional Concerns

Interior LightingIntroductionThe ThreatThe Use of LightUV FiltrationInterim Improvements

Heating, Ventilation, and Air ConditioningIntroductionThe IdealMajor Components of an HVAC SystemInterim ImprovementsAlternative Designs

Fire Protection DesignIntroductionBuilding for Fire SafetyFire ExtinguishersFire HosesFire Detection EquipmentAutomatic Sprinkler SystemsTotal Flooding Systems

Building for Pest ControlThe Basics of Library Integrated Pest ManagementIPM and Building Programs

Site Grading and Termiticide TreatmentsGood Design and Construction PracticesEnvironmental ControlsHousekeepingFood ServicesTrash Disposal

SecurityIntroductionForeseeability of CrimeSecurity of Collections

eil riI

33

38

46

53

59

Intrusion Security SystemsDoor Locks and Key ControlAdditional Security Considerations

Book ReturnsPreservation Issues

LandscapingIntroductionVegetationWater and DrainageOther Landscape Features

Cost ConsiderationsIs Preservation AffordableCost AnalysisPreservation and Maintenance

Construction ProceduresIntroductionDeveloping a Building PlanSelecting the Design TeamThe Design ProcessThe Construction ProcessInspection, Moving In, and Shake Down

63

64

66

69

References and Resources 75

Appendix 1. Using A Camera Light Meter to Measure Light Levels 81

Appendix II. Low-UV Fluore:,cent Lamps 82

Appendix III. Pesticide Application Record 83

Appendix IV. Checklist of Preservation Concerns 84

Index 92

v

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure1. Damage in the Wellesley collections 42. Examples of PCB signage 303. Example of a waterproofing system 314. Example of water disconnect signage 325. Electromagnetic spectrum 336. Zone of human comfort compared with the "zone of collection comfort" 407. Semi-recessed fire extinguisher cabinet 498. Typical sprinkler head 51

Table1. Preservation environment2. Common pests of books

LIST OF TABLES

vi

3954

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This work was funded by a LibraryServices and Construction Act grantadministered by the South Carolina StateLibrary. A number of individuals at the StateLibrary have assisted with the project anddeserve special thanks, including Mr. JamesJohnson, Jr., Director; Mr. John Landrum,Deputy Director; Ms. Margie Herron, LibraryDevelopment Director; Ms. Pat Gilleland,LSCA Coordinator; and Ms. Lea Walsh,Coordinator of Network Services. In particular,Mr. John Landrum and Ms. Margie Herronhave supported and guided this project, and Iappreciate their assistance and dedication.

Many individuals have providedinformation, offered support, and givenencouragement. All of the staff of SOLINET,but especially Ms. Lisa Fox, have providedinvaluable assistance. Ms. Julie Arnott, ofSOLINET, shared information and materialsfrom the June 1992 ALA /ALCTS seminar,"Library Buildings and Preservation: Designand Planning Considerations." Mr. HarlanGreene, now Director of the North CarolinaPreservation Consortium, has often providedassistance and a clear head. Finally, Ms. SharonBennett, of The Charleston Museum, haskindly shared information and resources onmany occasions.

I also want to thank those who havetaken the time and energy to read andcomment on this study. Ms. Debi Hacker,Conservation Administrator at ChicoraFoundation has reviewed the text, offering

vii

additional suggestions and helping to edit thefinal product.

Mr. Steve Goggans, AIA, of StevenGoggans and Associates, Inc., Pawleys Island,South Carolina, kindly agreed to review thisdocument from the perspective of an architectand has offered a variety of very usefulcomments and suggestions. Mr. David A.Lyon, IV, Director of the York CountyLibrary, Rock Hill, South Carolina, reviewedthis publication, providing a very valuablepublic library perspective. This wassupplemented by Mr. John Townsend, Divisionof Library Development at the New York StateLibrary. Ms. Karen Motylewski, Director ofField Service at the Northeast DocumentConservation Center in Andover,Massachusetts, also reviewed the text, offeringuseful suggestions. The section on TheBuilding Envelope and Heating, Ventilatioaand Air Conditioning was reviewed fortechnical details by Mr. Larry Michel, P.E.,Charleston Engineering, Charleston, SouthCarolina. I appreciate all of the time andenergy of the various reviewers. Theircomments, almost without exception, havebeen incorporated into the final text, vastlyimproving its quality and effectiveness.

Naturally, I assume full responsibilityfor any errors, omissions, or misinterpretationswhich may have crept into the text. I welcomecomments and suggestions from thoseeventually using this document for inclusion ina revised version.

10

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The library building is the first line ofpreservation, protecting the collections fromtemperature, humidity, light, storms, water,fire, pests, and a wide range of abuse. It istherefore essential that librarians understandhow to incorporate preservation issues into thelibrary building program.

Too often preservation is seen as thedomain of the academic or research library,with little relevance to public libraries. Facedwith budget and staff cuts, proactivepreservation, such as incorporatingpreservation features into building designs andplans, can help public libraries meet today'sfiscal challanges

The goals of this publication include:

promoting preservationconcerns,

demonstrating thatpreservation can be cost -effective,

helping architects anddesigners better understand thepreservation needs of libraries,and

developing modelpreservation guides for use inbuilding plans throughout theSoutheast.

To accomplish these goals this reportincorporates simple, non-technical advicedesigned for those with little or nopreservation or construction trade experiencewith more detailed explanations that willacquaint architects and design teams withmajor preservation concerns.

While this study will help institutions

1

1

make sound preservation choices, it is notdesigned to offer "cookbook" solutions. Manypreservation questions have more than onesolution, and the library should obtain theadvice of professional architects, engineers,and preservation consultants. This text isintended to serve as a primer, not a finalsource.

This publication contains majorsections on:

selecting the library site andincorporating risk assessments in thebuilding plans,

designing a building envelope thatwill help rather than hinderpreservation,

determining how the library interiorwill affect preservation,

selecting floor coverings forpreservation,

specifying a roof that will protectlibrary collections from damage,

integrating electrical and plumbingconcerns in the building plan,

designing light with preservation inmind,

establishing preservation designfeatures for HVAC (heating,ventilation, and air conditioning)systems,

developing fire protection designs,

building to exclude common pestproblems,

selecting appropriate security forlibrary collections, and

generating landscape plans thatfoster preservation goals.

Since preservation is often viewed onlyas a cost, a separate section outlines howpreservation incorporated in the building plancan help reduce maintenance and other long-term costs. Libraries are warned thatfrequently short-term cost-savings will resultin long-term obligations of staff, maintenance,and preservation time. Libraries should striveto reject the "more- for-less" mentality that hasdriven the construction market for the lastseveral decades and instead invest in soundconstruction. By specifying materials thatrequire low to minimal maintenance librariesare often likely to improve collectionpreservation while reducing overall costs.

Another section helps librarians betterunderstand the various planning, design, andconstruction stages. Preservation begins withthe building plan or program and depends onthe thoughtful input of the entire library staff.It discusses how consultants, includingarchitectural design teams, can be selected.The design process is traced through the stagesof schematic design, design development,construction documentation, and bidding or

2

negotiatio., phase, with an emphasis onincorporating preservation concerns into each.

The construction process is brieflydiscussed, with common preservation pitfallshighlighted. The importance of carefullyevaluating the library's preservationenvironment is explained. The techniques,such as the stable performance test period,punch list, commissioning, independent testingand balancing, that the library can use toensure a preservation environment are alsodiscussed.

Since this study has been kept simplefor those seeking quick explanations of majorpreservation and technical issues, only themost essential footnotes are included in thetext. References are found in a concludingsection, along with resources where librarianscan obtain additional information andassistance. In order to make the text even moreuseful, especially to those seeking a quickanswer or explanation, an index of majortopics, themes, issues, and products isincluded.

Finally, Appendix IV provides a list ofmajor preservation issues. This serves as ahandy "check-list" of essential considerations,useful to both librarian and architect.

12

INTRODUCTION

Goal and Audience of this Publication

The goal of this publication is simple -- it is intended to help librarians, libraryplanners, and architects design and buildlibraries with preservation in mind. It isintended to be used by public libraries ofdifferent sizes. Even academic or researchinstitutions: small historical societies, archives,and local museums may find the advice andpreservation goals beneficial. Ultimately thispublication is directed at librarians,specifically those who have little or nobackground in either preservation or theconstruction trades.

This booklet was at least partiallyinspired by Will Manley's March 1989 articlein the Wilson Library Bulletin in which hebemoaned the absence of clear advice on suchtopics as air - conditioning that works and roofsthat don't leak. This publication intends to putsimple, straight- forward construction andpreservation advice in the hands of those whoneed it most - - public librarians.

Why Preserve?

While preservation concerns arefrequently addressed by academic and researchlibraries, few public libraries whole heartedlyembrace the concept. There are likely anumber of reasons for this reluctance, rangingfrom a lack of preservation awareness to a lackof funding.

Public librarians of ten have difficultyseeing how the goals of preservation and thegoals of a public lending institution can besimultaneously met, especially with smallstaffs. They even question why a publiclending institution should be concerned withlong-term preservation. Public libraries tend tohave smaller collections of primarily newermaterials than academic or research

3

institutions. Frequently these materials areduplicated by other libraries across the UnitedStates, giving the impression that thecollections are more expendable. These publiclibraries frequently believe that preservationproblems can be handled by larger acquisitionbudgets and more aggressive weeding ofdamaged or deteriorated collections.

The tight fiscal constraints that state,county, and local authorities operate undertoday suggest that public libraries can nolonger count on large acquisition budgets.Combined with reduced budgets, aggressiveweeding of collections will mean a reduction inofferings to the public.

One study conducted at the publiclibrary in Wellesley, Massachusettsl,documents the crisis in preservation. Thelibrary serves a community of 27,000 residentsand holds approximately 225,000 volumes. Thestudy found that nearly half of the books(46%) were highly acidic, with an additional22% being moderately acidic. Figure 1,adapted from the Wellesley study, illustratesthe types of damage found by collection. It wasfound that $400,000, representing a third ofthe total annual budget for all library services,was needed to put the collection in merelygood condition. This figure represents justmaintenance costs. The article, correctly,cautions that libraries with older buildings andother problems would face even higher costs.

As budgets are strained there will beobvious consequences for books and othercollections. Libraries today are finding theirbudgets are being cut. Preservation can help

I Reynolds, Ann L., Nancy Schrock, andJoanna Walsh, "Preservation: The PublicLibrary Response," Library Journal (February15, 1989) :128 -132.

Adult Fiction

Non-Fiction

Children's

Re-erence

111111111111111

\ N11111 11111111111111111111111111

111111111111111

\Dust Jackets

D Boards/Covers111 Hinges71 Spines13 DistortionEl Pages

1 i 1

10 20 30 40 50

Percent With Damage

Figure 1. Damage in Wellesley collections.

books last longer and serve more patrons.Preservation can also minimize the threatposed by natural and man-made disasters tothe collection.

Sometimes preservationists, in theirzeal, have presented the ideal of preservation,while allowing little latitude in approaches orspecifications. One example might be theirrational dedication to the 72° F 2°temperature and 50% RH ± 3% relativehumidity requirements for a preservationenvironment. Such inflexible approaches haveprobably alienated many librarians, while littleeffort was paid to justifying the associatedcosts.

This publication takes a differentapproach. An attempt has been made topresent the ideal of preservation, and to justifyor explain that ideal. Recognizing that many

4

libraries cannot obtain that ideal, alternativeapproaches are presented which allow a rangeof preservation options to be explored. Inparticular, it allows libraries to examine thecosts of various options with their architectsand designers, selecting those that can beintegrated within the existing budget.

It also goes one step further. Planningfor preservation at the building level alsoaddresses concerns over limited staffing andfunding. This publication encourages whatmight be called "environmental preservation,"or proactive preservation, rather than moretime (and cost) intensive reactive preservation.Many of the routine decisions in the design ofa library will have preservation ramifications.This study explores these issues, helpinglibrarians more clearly understand howpreservation can be integrated into the librarywith little or no additional cost. For example,many pest control problems could beeliminated or minimized if pest controlconcerns were integrated into the buildingdesign.

Good preservation can provideunexpected, but pleasant, benefits. Attentionto light levels, location of windows, andadequate ultraviolet light filtration can keepexpensive furnishings, like carpet andupholstered furniture, from fading andwearing out so quickly. Concern with fire andsecurity issues may reduce the cost ofinsurance. Insisting on sound building practiceswill help avoid early obsolescence and buildingfailure.

Most recommendations offered herehave small initial costs, but will provide majorpreservation benefits and often majorreductions in maintenance costs.

Many public libraries operate under theconstant review and oversight of electedcounty councils. When approaching newbuilding construction or remodeling, thefrequent goal (discussed in a later chapter) isto get more, for less. This results in pressurebeing placed on the library director to cutcorners - - and issues relating, either directlyor indirectly, to preservation are often the first

1 4'

target. Ultimately those with the purse stringsmust be convinced that some aspects of libraryconstruction simply can't be cut or low -bid.

One technique to help in this process isto bring the county maintenance staff, countyengineer, or others concerned with the long-term operation of the new library into theplanning early. While county councils may beinclined to ignore library directors, they tendto be less willing to ignore their directors ofmaintenance or engineers. Often theseindividuals can emphasize the increased costsof cleaning skylights, or replacing fadedfurniture and carpet. They can be valuableallies in the fight for a sound, preservationoriented structure.

Another technique, discussed else wherein this publication, is to have the architectworking for, and with, the library, not thecounty council or governing body. Aknowledgeable architect who understands theimportance of preservation issues can helpexplain why the building should be designedwith preservation in mind.

Finally, keep it simple when discussingpreservation issues with the governing body,but be sure you understand the issues. Forexample, some county councils, because of oneor two bad experiences with inadequatelydesigned and poorly installed "flat" roofs areopposed to that design. But a properlydesigned "flat" roof actually has a 1 to 3% slope- - and this should be explained to thegoverning body (this is also where thecoop.eration of your architect will help).

Organization and How to IntegratePreservation

The following 13 chapters include avariety of areas where preservation can beincorporated into the design and constructionof new libraries or the renovation of existingstructures. Following these discussions is achapter which discusses cost savings that canbe achieved with preservation. The discussionsemphasize that often preservation will showrelatively high capital costs, while providingsignificant long-term annual savings. The

5

purpose of this discussion is to establish theimportance of looking at long-term costs andsavings, and working with architects todevelop realistic life cycle cost studies andbenefit /cost analyses.

The final chapter briefly takes thelibrarian through the basic steps in newconstruction (and many major renovationprograms), illustrating preservation pitfallsalong the way. This section will help ensurethat once preservation concerns and issueshave been identified and addressed in thebuilding plan they do not disappear as theproject progresses. Ways that the library canprotect itself and ensure that systems performthe way they were intended are also includedin the discussions.

Ideally, the library anticipatingrenovations or new construction will obtainmultiple copies of this publication early in theprocess. Copies will be distributed by thedirector to the members of the planningcommittee and to the library's governingboard. This will help ensure that everyone isfamiliar with why preservation should beintegrated into the library design - - and howit can be accomplished. As previouslymentioned, the director should ensure that thegoverning board understands the importance ofpreservation -- and the broad impact it canhave on all areas of the library's operation. Thelibrary planning committee should next reviewthis document, highlighting areas of particularconcern and discussing different options.

Next, the publication should be givento all architects who are bidding on the projector are otherwise involved. The library shouldemphasize the preservation issues. The libraryshould also question architects who aresuggesting significant deviation from thesepreservation concerns. For example, if thearchitect presents plans with entire walls ofglass, the library should insist on knowingwhat steps have been taken to preventexcessive exposure to UV and visible light (aswell as the steps taken to reduce heat gain).The amount of time that it will take the libraryand the architect to "walk through" thesevarious preservation concerns is insignificant

13

compared to the eventual costs if concerns areignored at the planning level.

It is essential that the library and thearchitect chosen to plan the new constructionor renovation fully understand each other. Thispublication tries to help by presentingpreservation concerns in a manner that thearchitect can understand, and by presentingdesign and construction concerns in such a waythat the librarian can understand.

What This Publication Isn't

It is also important to clearly state whatthis publication does not contain and will notdo.

This is not a preservation handbook. Itdoes not contain a complete listing ofpreservation concerns and techniques. Thereare any number of very excellent texts,pamphlets, brochures, and guides to a widerange of preservation issues. This publicationis only concerned with how preservation canbe integrated into the construction of newbuildings or the renovation of existingstructures.

This is not a "scholarly," in-depthguide. It is intended to provide the harriedlibrary administrator, planner, or architectwith enough information to make sounddecisions, not to make them experts inpreservation. It avoids abundant footnotes,long lists of citations, and overpoweringbibliographies. There are footnotes andcitations in the text only where essential. Thoseseeking more information are referred to theReferences and Resources Section, whichoffers a few of the many sources of additionalinformation.

This is not intended to be the last wordin preservation. It should go without sayingthat preservation is still a young field and thatthere are frequent, and often rapid, advancesin our understanding. Considerable care has

6

gone into making this guide accurate, well-planned, and carefully reviewed. But there willbe advances in preservation that may alter,temper, or void the recommendations offeredin this publication. Further, there are certainlyareas over which "professionals of goodconscience" can disagree. The importance ofconsulting with professional architects andengineers for specific solutions to specificproblems cannot be over emphasized.

This is not intended to be a cookbookapproach to preservation. There are manydifferent ways individual institutions canchoose to focus their preservation concerns.All building issues have costs, whether theyinvolve the opulence of the director's office orthe quality of the air conditioning to be used.These decisions must be made on the locallevel, weighing a vast number of issues andconcerns. The goal of this publication is tohelp libraries clearly see preservation issuesand integrate them into the planning, not to setup an immutable list of requirements.

Ultimately, preservation planning mustcome from the local library. The library mustunderstand the value of its collections, theimportance of those collections to thecommunity, and how those collections areused. The library must set goals and establishstrategies for preservation. This document isintended to offer suggestions, not providecommandments.

And finally, this publication is notintended to take the place of designprofessionals. It should go without saying thatreading is no substitute for the professionalexperience offered by architects and engineers.Their expertise should be sought since thereare usually a variety of solutions to any designproblem. This publication will only serve as aprimer, helping to emphasize the importanceof preservation concerns, it will not beadequate to arrive at solutions to everyproblem inherent in the design or remodelingof libraries.

t

SITE LOCATION AND PLAN

Introduction

While ideally a variety of preservationconcerns should be integrated into the buildingsite selection, typically the location of libraryconstruction is somewhat constrained, eitherby funding, access to property already ownedby a governmental entity, or need to reachprospective patrons. And certainly whenrenovations are being considered, the sitelocation is not an issue. Rarely willpreservation concerns and issues be able toinfluence the selection of a site for the newlibrary. Regardless, it is still appropriate tobriefly indicate how preservation concernsmight affect the site choice and plan, and howthese are often different from the concerns ofthe architect.

Architects will typically review, ifsomewhat briefly, such site planning topics as:

views and existingvegetation,

slope, soil conditions, anddrainage,

solar energy considerationsand the impact ofm icroclimates,

flood zones, at least from aregulatory standpoint, and

road access and landscapefeatures.

Urban projects may also include a contextualanalysis, examining the building typology andhierarchy, regional character, city form,building scale and fenestration, pedestrian andvehicular access, and various views.

Some of these concerns, such as flood

7

zones, have clear implications on thepreservation of the collections. Others,especially the concerns dominating urbanprojects, are unlikely to be major issues inthe preservation of the collections (althoughthey may be major historic preservation issuesto which the library has tremendoussensitivity).

In contrast, preservation concerns aregoing to involve a variety of issues oftencovered in disaster planning since the goal ofsite planning is to minimize or mitigate asmany disaster risks as possible through specificbuilding plan modifications. For those thatcannot be minimized, this early planning assiststhe library in recognizing major issues needingadditional internal planning.

Risk Assessments

Both the first and last step in thisprocess is risk assessment.

In the risk assessment it is important todo more than develop a list of potentialproblems since this can be almost limitless.Quantifying the risks is essential to guide thedevelopment of the disaster plan. A simpletechnique is based on the formula:

Risk (probability of an event occurring) x Vulnerability(degree of impact to institution) = Criticality

To accomplish this quantification it will benecessary to rely on common sense andexperience, but the practice is really simplerthan might be imagined.

Scaling of risk and vulnerability arebest done using eitht percentages or a 1-4scale; both are commonly understood andsimple to apply. For example, an event whichis almost certain to occur is ranked between 76and 100% or as 4. An event which is highlylikely to occur is ranked between 51 and 75%

BEST COPY AVAILABLE

or as 3. An event likely to occur is rankedbetween 26 and 50% or as 2. And an eventwhich is least likely to occur is ranked as 1 to25% or as 1.

Looking at vulnerability, an event thatwould shut down your library permanently orat least for several months is ranked as 76 to100% or as 4. An event that would shut downoperations for an unacceptable time is rankedbetween 51 and 75% or as 3. An event thatwould curtail operations enough to interferewith the functioning of the institution isranked between 26 and 50% or as 2. Finally, anevent which would interfere with normalfunctions but to a tolerable level is rankedbetween 1 and 25% or as 1.

The end result of this exercise is theability to rank concerns, or establish thecrucial issues that the planning of the libraryshould face. For example, if both theprobability of an event occurring and itsimpact on the functioning of the library arelow, it is likely not a major issue requiringintegration into the building plan. There are,however, some issues that all libraries shouldcarefully consider.

Rose and Westendorfl provide anexcellent list of the multi-I- and ratings of thevarious counties in the Unii.cd States. Concernscovered include earthquakes, landslides,expansive soil, flood, storm surge, hurricane,and tornado.

Natural Features

While any list of potential naturaldisasters could be made to sound like a list ofmajor plagues and disasters throughout history,major concerns certainly include hurricanes,volcanoes, earthquakes, tornadoes, landslides,

1 Rose, Ralph W. and David G. Westendorf,"Multi-Hazard Ratings of Counties by Statesfor the United States." In Protecting HistoricArchitecture and Museum Collections fromNatural Disasters, edited by Barclay G. Jones,pp. 477-528. Boston:Butterworths, 1986.

8

winds, heat, cold, thunderstorms, and floods.In the Southeast, issues of probable highcriticality will include hurricanes, earthquakes,tornadoes, thunderstorms, and floods.

Hurricanes

Between 1900 and 1977 South Carolinawas hit by 10 hurricanes, compared to 50 inFlorida and 4 in Georgia. The most recentexperience in South Carolina with HurricaneHugo has perhaps reminded libraries thatplanning for hurricanes is essential.Preservation concerns include accompanyinghigh winds, heavy rainfall, loss of power, andtidal surges.

Architects are able to design hurricaneresistant structures, incorporating concerns forconstruction techniques and specific designparameters, effects of battering, floodminimization, and materials used inconstruction. One study undertaken in Texasfound that complying with model hurricanecode provisions would add only about 3 to 8%in structural costs and 1 to 3% in overallfinished costs'-.

Excellent data are also available forhurricane- resistant construction that includesfeatures to reduce potential wind damage. TheTexas study examined the reduction in damagethat would accompany three classes ofstructures (structures designed to meet a 60mph criteria, those designed to meet a 105mph criteria, and those designed to meet a 140mph criteria). The study found that therelative damage factors for the three classes ofstructures was 40 to 10 to 1, i.e., 40 times morestructures built to the 60 mph criteria and 10times more structures built to the 105 mphcriteria would be damaged than those built tothe 140 mph standard when wind damagealone was considered. When flying debris are

117eTsT, William G., "The Effect on BuildingCosts Due to Improved Wind ResistantStandards." In Hurricanes and Coastal Storms,edited by Earl J. Baker, pp. 109-114.Gainesville:Florida Sea Grant College ReportNo. 33, 1980.

18

also considered, the ratio becomes 3 to 1.5 to 1since it is obviously more difficult to protectagainst flying boats, billboards, and telephonepoles. This study also estimated the averageloss per $100 of building valuation for thethree classes of structures. These wereestimated to be $4, $1, and 0.170 respectively.

This study indicates the additionalbuilding costs are a small price to pay for thesurvivability of the library structure and theprotection of its contents. Prior to HurricaneHugo few librarians in South Carolina hadbeen through a recent hurricane. Even now,the number is relatively small. The value ofimproved construction is realized only whendisaster strikes. Then there is either relief orregret.

The architect will, of course, complywith local codes, the most common of which inthis region is the Standard Building Codeissued by the Southern Building Code CongressInternational, Inc. Differences in designs willoften be related to the age of the structure,code enforcement, and the design of structuresby non-architects. If hurricanes are a criticalconcern for a library, it would be appropriateto specifically discuss the level of protectionexisting codes provide compared to morestringent design features. It may beappropriate to request the architect to design abuilding which takes into account features notoften found locally.

While the architect can handle thebuilding design, the library staff should payparticular attention to features related to theweather- tightness of the building (its envelope,roof, and use of glass), plumbing features suchas site drainage, interior drains, and backflowpreventers on drains and sewers, and ability torecover. The library should be designed tominimize water damage and allow rapidrecovery.

For example, if windows must beincluded in the design of the library, aprotective feature like solid, 1/2 -inch plywoodwindow covers should be included. On singlestory buildings these would be installed fromthe outside, using pretapped holes in the

9

window frames or "hurricane clips". For multi-story buildings upper level covers could beinstalled from the interior, again usingpretapped holes. When not in use such coverscould be stored on site. Light weight coverswould facilitate installation by a singleindividual. Those on the outside couldminimize breakage of glass and entry of waterand debris. While those placed on the insidemight not save the glass, they would at leastreduce water entry. The same effect, withgreater convenience, can be achieved byinstalling roll -down hurricane shutters on allwindows.

Earthquakes

It surprises most people to learn thatthe U.S. Geological Survey places SouthCarolina, the northern half of Georgia and thewestern half of North Carolina in the sameseismic risk zone as much of California. Asecond area of high seismic risk is located inthe Mississippi valley covering parts ofArkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

This fact is certainly supported bySouth Carolina's earthquake hist,:ry - - the1886 Charleston earthquake caused damageestimated at $23 million, 60 deaths, and wasfelt as far as 350 miles away. Two strongaftershocks were associated with the tremor.This was followed by 12 additionalearthquakes during the first half the twentiethcentury.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.0to 5.0 can cause considerable damage.Anything above a 5.0 is sure to result inextensive disruption of library service. Anearthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 candestroy buildings and bridges, twist railroadlines, cause floods and landslides, and openlarge cracks in the ground.

California has made tremendous stridesin developing comprehensive earthquakedesign codes, largely because of its experiencedealing with earthquakes and denseconcentrations of population that are put atrisk. The Southeast has been slow to catch up,and libraries may wish to direct their

10

architects' attention to the California codessuch as Title 24 of the California StateBuilding Code, the Los Angeles MasonryBuilding Ordinance, as well as the AppliedTechnology Council's proposed seismicprovisions in ATC- 3. The RecommendedProvisions for the Development of SeismicRegulations for New Buildings - 1985,produced by the Building Seismic SafetyCouncil should also be reviewed for designstandards.

Structures are damaged or destroyedduring earthquakes by four major causes:ground rupture (opening of faults), groundshaking, differential subsidence (sinking ofground areas on faults), and liquefaction(where loose soils are transformed into a semi-liquidif ied state). Ground shaking, however, isthe primary cause of building damage andfailure. Earthquakes generate ground motionsthat can be expressed in three mutuallyperpendicular axes, essentially at the sametime.

Basically, seismic resistance is achievedby combining a variety of structural elements,including continuous shear walls, bracedframes, and movement-resistant frames,connected by horizontal diaphragms. It is alsoachieved by avoiding certain features, such asirregularly shaped buildings and penetrationsof the building diaphragm, and using certaintypes of material, such as tempered glass in allwindows.

As with hurricane resistance, thearchitect will be well able to integrate seismicdesign features without any assistance from thelibrary staff. The goal of such seismic designsis life safety and to prevent the failure of thestructure. Even if a building withstands theearthquake, it can still suffer considerabledamage and be rendered nonfunctional becauseof the damage to nonstructural elements,building equipment, and contents. Further,most seismic designs are not intended toprotect building contents. Consequently,library design must be three fold: (1)protection of life, (2) protection of thebuilding, and (3) protection of the librarycontents. This will call for the use of

10

innovative techniques and a wide variety ofdesign features.

Anything moveable can be affected byan earthquake, including everything fromsmall, lightweight chairs to entire ranges ofbooks weighing hundreds of pounds. Shelvingis particularly vulnerable to the effects of anearthquake. Ranges will dump their contentsof books and topple into one another likedominoes. Specific earthquake resistive designfeatures include use of lateral bracing andanchor bolts that can withstand the anticipatedlateral and uplifting loads and ridge ties at thetop of units to brace and stabilize theinstallation. Shelving against walls should beanchored to the wall to prevent battering. It isessential that shelving not fall over, or evenlean, under earthquake forces. An excellentdiscussion of these techniques is provided byJohn A. Blume's article, "The Mitigation andPrevention of Earthquake Damage toArtifacts," in Protecting Historic Architectureand Museum Collections from NaturalDisasters (edited by Barclay G. Jones, 1986,Butterworths, Boston).

Light fixtures are also susceptible toearthquake damag.. Suspended fixtures twistand rack with severe damage and failure in thesupport stems or at the ceiling support points.Surface mounted fixtures often surviveundamaged because they are securely tied intothe ceiling system. The recessed fluorescentfixtures used in many institutions are oftensupported on ceiling systems without anypositive attachments. During an earthquakethese fixtures pound on the surroundingceiling elements and slide or jump off theirsupports and fall. Recessed fixtures can bemade safer by properly supporting and bracingsuspended ceilings, using commerciallyavailable attachment accessories, and ensuringthe fixtures are secured directly to the mainrunners of the ceiling support system. Manydesigners further urge that the fixtures beprovided with independent secondary supportsattached to the fixture housing and thebuilding structure such as two 12-gauge wiresplaced on diagoal corners of each fixture. Seethe June 1992 issue of Chicora FoundationResearch for additional earthquake guidance.

20

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are perhaps the mostdestructive of localized storms. Strikingsuddenly, thee: strong winds can uproot trees,lift buildings off foundations, twist structuralsteel frames, and cut paths of destructionthrough the countryside. Pressure differentialscan cause houses to explode outward. Win, sare often in excess of 200 mph, lightning isvirtually continuous, rain is very heavy but ofshort duration, and hail is frequentlyassociated with the storm. The storms typicallytravel 25 to 40 mph but can remain stationary,change direction, and travel up to 60 mph.Most tornadoes move from the west orsouthwest toward the east or northeast. Themean width of the path of destruction fromtornadoes is 750 feet although this can varyfrom a few feet to about a mile. Whileoccurring throughout the year, tornadoes peakin April, May, and June. They occur mostfrequently between 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm.

South Carolina has an average of sixtornado days per year, compared to 12 inGeorgia, five in North Carolina, 20 in Florida,and 9 in Alabama. Of course, none of theseaverages compare to the average of 46 tornadodays in Texas.

Architects can best protect librariesfrom the effects of tornadoes through variouswind resistive designs. Where warranted, thearchitect should be requested to specificallydesign an area of the building suitable as coverin the event of a tornado warning (and thisfeature should be known by the library staff).Additional preservation concerns will includeadequacy of lightning protection, weather-tightness of the building, limiting the numberand size of windows, and placement of HVACequipment on the ground, rather than the roof.Light wood frame buildings and wood frameroofs are particularly susceptible to winddamage.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are most frequentduring the warm part of the year, and thelightning which accompanies these storms is

11

perhaps one of the most dangerous of allnatural phenomena. During an average yearlightning kills more than 150 people, injuresover a thousand, and causes in excess of $100million damage. South Carolina has between 50and 60 days a year with thunderstorms,compared to around 100 in southern Floridaand fewer than 40 in western Texas. Thestrongest sustained winds on a 50 -year basis,excluding tornadoes for the bulk of theSoutheast are around 70 mph, while winds of80 mph can be expected in South Carolina and100+ mph winds may be found in southernFlorida. Most of the Southeast is in an area ofrelatively heavy rainfall intensity (between 7and 8 inches per hour for five minute periodsexpected once every 10 years).

Thunderstorms will primarily damagelibraries through the actions of wind andwind - driven water. Consequently, it isimportant the architect consider wind resistantdesign features (such as the selection ofmaterials which have sufficient strength toresist applied loadings, proper connections, andbracing to resist lateral collapse). Anacceptable roof design is equally important. Inaddition, the librarian should insist onminimizing window exposure, developing gooddrainage plans for the facility, installinglightning protection, and using both firedetection and suppression systems.

Floods

Floods are usually divided into riverinefloods, defined as an overflow of a river ontothe floodplain, tidal floods, defined as anoverflow of water onto coastal lands borderingthe ocean or marshes, and flash floods, whichare local floods of great volume and shortduration. To these are added the variety of"floods" resulting from weather conditions,such as thunderstorms, and occasional mishapssuch as broken pipes.

The tremendous force of floods shouldnever be underestimated. A flash floodresulting from rain over an area as small as 100square miles with 12 to 15 inches of rainfalling over a 24 hour period can deposit 21t

2i

billion cubic feet of water weighing 78 milliontons. Streams flowing at less than a half milean hour can swell to 35 feet above normallevels and flow at 5 to 10 miles an hour.

The best way to avoid riverine and tidalfloods is to locate libraries in areas which arenot suspectable to the problem, that is bylocating the building in an upland area ofinherently low risk. Of course, this is notalways possible. Libraries must be built toserve their patrons, which often means locatingon floodplains or in coastal flood zones. If thisis the case, the first response must be to ensurethat the architect designs a building whichmeets the FEMA building elevationrequirements and which integrates specialflood resistive features. These typically involvea resistance to flotation (i.e., anchoring thebuilding to the foundation), collapse, andlateral movement. The primary goal of suchdesign is to protect the structure from failure.

The next step would be to carefullyexamine ways to protect the contents of thelibrary. This protection might be achieved bysuch steps as limiting windows, promoting sitedrainage, avoiding collection storage inunderground areas, and installing stormwaterand sewer backwater preventer valves. Goodplanning will also ensure there are mechanismsto mitigate the event, should the worst occur.In the event of flooding, these might includesuch features as floors and walls which can beeasily cleaned, and electrical outlets withground fault circuit interruption.

12

Man-Made Features

Man- made features are less oftenconsidered as a source of vulnerability thannatural events. However, a wide variety ofissues might legitimately be considered,including proximity to transportation networksthat could cause harm to collections, that is, onhighways or rail lines used in the frequenttransportation of hazardous waste or nuclearmaterial, location near utility plants or linessuch as near nuclear or fossil fuel plants oradjacent to substations, or location inneighborhoods that might be prone to violence.

Since at least some man- made hazardscan be more easily anticipated than manynatural events, one of the easiest approaches isto simply avoid library construction inunsuitable areas. When this is no an option,however, some man-made events offer littleopportunity for mitigation. For example, if itis necessary to locate a library on a streetfrequently used for the transport of nuclearwaste, there is little that can be done to designin building safety. The best strategy is for thelibrary to develop contingency plans for sucha disaster. Alternatively, if a neighborhood hasa history of civil unrest or street violence,additional security designs can be integratedinto the planning to provide additionalprotection to staff, patrons, and collections.

THE BUILDING ENVELOPE

Introduction

The building envelope or "shell"consists of the foundation, floors, walls, doors,windows, and roof. This envelope is thebarrier between the controlled internalenvironment and she fluctuating harsh externalenvironment. The building envelope is also afilter, allowing carefully controlled amounts oflight, heat, and so forth into the building. Ifproperly designed and constructed, thebuilding envelope will reduce energy costs.

The preservation of a stable internalenvironment, essential for the preservation oflibrary materials and of prime concern to mostbuilding occupants, is one of the most costlyoperational items the library must finance.Anything that can be done to minimize long-term costs will be to the advantage of thefacility. The library will often find advantagein requiring various cost/benefit and life cyclecost analyses - - items which may have arelatively high initial cost but maysignificantly reduce operational costs over thelong term.

Design Features

The design of an effective buildingshell begins with the structure's relationship tothe site. The more sheltered the site, the easierand less costly it will be to exclude theelements. A low building in the midst ofhigher buildings is likely to experience lowerwind speeds than a tall building situatedamong low structures -- it is more sheltered. Atall building may suffer from increased heattransfer.

Effective design also considers thestructure's orientation. It is important toincorporate controlled uses of the naturalclimate, while excluding the variousdisadvantageous features such as high levels of

13

ultraviolet and visible light. Large areas ofglass should be avoided on east and westelevations. Windows on the south elevation (ifthey can be included without compromisingthe safety of the collections) may help reducewinter heating costs. This, however, alsoassumes the system is designed to recognize thetemperature differential between the north andsouth sides of the structure. North- facingwindows will not significantly increase heatgain, but may cause excessive heat loss inwinter. While the sun can never be ignored, incontrolled moderation it can be tolerated andeven made to assist in the heating of thefacility. Left uncontrolled, with a poorlyoriented building, the effects of the sun willbe disastrous to collections, human comfort,and the budget of the library.

The architect will also recognize thatthe building shape and weight affect thethermal efficiency of the library building. Thesmaller the external surface area of the library,i.e., its walls and roof, the less its heat loss. Aheavyweight structure, for example, oneconstructed of concrete rather than wood, willbe slow to respond to internal thermal input,but the heat absorbed and stored can be usedlater to even out the highs and lows, creatinga more stable environment than possible withlightweight construction. In fact, a rule ofthumb is every inch of brickwork, masonry, orconcrete will yield an hour of lag time in heattransmission. Hence a wall 12 inches thick willimpede heat flow for about 12 hours - - longenough for the radiation peak to have passedand the exterior temperature to have cooled.

The planner will also do well toeliminate the wasted space of buildings,creating only the space necessary to performthe functions of the library. While "wide - open"spaces may be aesthetically pleasing, they arecostly to build and maintain. The funds usedfor aesthetics could be used to preserve the

23

library's collections. For example, a reductionin ceiling heights to what is necessary(eliminating dead space, atriums and similardesign features) can significantly reduce thecosts of heating and cooling buildings, withoutendangering health.

Air leakage (infiltration andexfiltration) are major sources of conditionedair loss and major contributors to fuel wastage.While they cannot be totally eliminated,careful design and planning will minimizeleakage. As discussed under Heating,Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, apreservation environment will maintainpositive air pressure in the building,minimizing infiltration in favor of exfiltration.Essential features include thoughtful planningof internal spaces, careful positioning of doorsand windows, selection of windows for highperformance, and skillful design of all joints inthe building fabric.

In addition to excluding the externalenvironment, the building shell also functionsto maintain the often unnatural internalenvironment such as the cool, low humidityenvironment in the middle of a swelteringAugust day or the warm, normal humidityenvironment in the middle of January.

The design and installation of thermaland vapor barriers is of particular concernwhen the library is expected to hold constanthumidity levels. Many of the condensation andwater damage problems in buildings today arethe result of architects designing vapor barriersthat cannot be built; contractors notunderstanding the importance of the barrier;and engineers taking a passive role in thedesign process.

The basics are simple - - every libraryshould have good, continuous insulation. Thesteel studs frequently used in buildings todayact like fins on a radiator, forming a bridgebetween the inside and outside. The result isthat R-19 insulation will be reduced ineffectiveness to something around R -10. Onesolution is to install an insulating, foil- facedsheathing on the winter warm side of the steelstuds, carefully taping the joints with foil or

14

plastic vapor barrier tape - - not the cheap"duct" tape often used. This will not onlyisolate the studs, breaking the "bridge," butwill also double as an effective vapor barrier.

Coupled with insulation, as impliedabove, must be an effective vapor barrier - -one that has a permeance of 0.1 or less perms(grains per hour per square inches of mercury),and that is also continuous. The paper or evenfoil face of fiberglass insulation does notqualify as continuous and should not beconsidered an adequate vapor barrier,especially for libraries which will behumidified during the winter. An appropriatevapor barrier is 4 -mil high - performance cross-laminated polyethylene film.

Finally, even the best design can bedefeated during installation. Vapor barrierscan be installed on the wrong side of the wall,forming a "dam," and causing extensivedamage to the building, or the vapor barriercan be damaged by later work such asinstallation of electrical outlets. The librarystaff should be aware of these potentialproblems and be alert during the constructionof the facility.

There are a variety of very complexand tedious, methods of calculating thethermal performance of a building envelope,taking into consideration the fluctuation ofenergy input from the sun, the occupants ofthe building, the lighting and other electricalequipment, and internal heating and coolingcycles.

Normally these are performed after thedesign of the building and are intended todevelop the most economical means of heatingand cooling, given the building design. Itwould be to the benefit of the library torequest such analyses be performed during thedesign phase to ensure that the design isthermally efficient. Thermal evaluation at anearly design stage can not only save operatingcosts, but it can ensure a more preservation-oriented structure.

Non-Environmental Features

The building envelope should also bedesigned with preservation concerns, otherthan the control of the environment, in mind.For example, by eliminating niches, recesses,courtyards, and other exterior features, thesecurity of the patrons and staff is improved.These measures will likely also reducemaintenance costs.

Both the architect, and later thelibrarian, should mentally tour the proposeddesign. Every feature of the building envelopeshould be examined. No feature should beallowed which encourages vandalism, increasesmaintenance, or causes other preservationproblems. By encouraging careful attention topreservation needs at the design stage, many ofthe problems typically encountered later in theprocess can be avoided.

Tips for Renovation

While it may sound as though theapproaches offered here are only useful fornew construction, there are manyimprovements that can be economically madein existing building shells. If a library isanticipating renovations, the architect should beasked to include recommendations to improvethe thermal efficiency of the existing structure.

One of the simplest steps is to install orreplace caulking to close cracks. Specialattentinn should be given to window and doorframes, where walls meet the foundation,where walls join at the corners, and aroundvents, ductwork, pipes, and electrical conduitsthat penetrate the exterior wall.

Faulty or broken glass should bereplaced. Faulty glass can include double panesystems that are foggy, indicating a loss of thevacuum and development of condensation.

Window and door frames should betightened and carefully weatherstripped. Evenlittle cracks can cause major air infiltration.For example, double doors with noweatherstripping can have an opening ofinch. This amounts to a 20 square inch opening

15

,

- - over a quarter the size of this page.Installing or replacing weatherstripping willnot only reduce air leakage, but will improvethe barrier to pests.

Doors and windows that do not operateproperly should be fixed. Doors that don'tclose completely or that have broken hardwareshould be repaired. All exterior doors shouldhave automatic door- closers installed. Theyshould be checked for proper operation.

Windows can be insulated and shielded.Single pane windows conduct a great deal ofheat because their thermal resistance (R value)is very low - - only 0.9. Single pane "storm"windows or double or triple pane replacementwindows can double, triple, even quadruplethe R - value of your library's windows. Heattransmission can also be controlled withreflective film. Many types also reduce oreliminate the ultraviolet transmission. Thisfilm, however, will also block beneficialwinter heating, so its use should be carefullyevaluated. Windows can be shielded byvegetation (being careful to keep trees awayfrom the building).

It may be possible to add buildinginsulation. Roof insulation, for example, maybe applied inside, under the roof, or outsidebetween the roof deck and roofing material.The roof should be the first area examinedduring renovations since much of a building'sheat loss and gain is through the roof.Wherever insulation is added, the library, itsarchitect, and the contractor should ensure theinsulation will not contribute to moisturebuildup. Vapor barriers and adequateventilation are essential, but they must heproperly installed (discussed above). Wherethere is concern with condensation in walls, itis possible to use humidity and temperaturesensors, within the walls.

It may be possible to create a vestibulein your library which can function as an air-lock, reducing the amount of unconditioned airthat enters, and the amount of conditioned airthat leaks out. Vestibule areas do not requirethe use of either air conditioning or heating.

2C

THE LIBRARY INTERIOR

Introduction

Most librarians and architects, whenthe topics of interior finishes and furnishingsare considered, will be concerned with suchdiverse topics as acoustic quality, durability,creating the appropriate "feel," and aesthetics.The creation of a preservation qualityenvironment is rarely mentioned.

Yet anyone who is hyper-allergic willquickly understand the variety of unpleasantchemicals present in virtually all buildings,especially those recently constructed. Oneadhesive, for example, was found to off -gas,or release during curing, acetaldehyde,methanol, methyl formulate, ethanol, 2-propanone, 2-propanel, 2-butanone, methylpropionate, benzene, methyl isobutenate, andmcthylbenzene. An introduction to thisproblem is John Bower's The Healthy House(1980, Carol Communications, New York).Unfortunately, many of the chemicals thataffect people are also very damaging to librarymaterials. One of the most troublesome isformaldehyde.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with anodor detectable at a concentration of about Ipart per million (ppm). At levels of 0.05 to 0.5ppm eyes may become irritated and at 1 ppmnose, throat, and bronchial irritation is likelyto occur. The American Society of Heating,Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers(ASHRAE) recommends 0.1 ppm as themaximum acceptable level in buildingsenvironment for health purposes.

There is always formaldehyde in theair. Background (or ambient) levels may be ashigh as 0.02 ppm in an urban setting. Sourcesof formaldehyde are especially prevalent in thebuilt environment, being found in some fabrics,

16

carpeting, particle board, plywood, insulation,paper-based laminates such as Formica*,fiberboard such as Masonitet fiber -glassmolded materials, paints, and plastics. It iseven found in some paper products, such aspaper plates and paper towels. The highestindoor emissions, however, come from twosources -- urea- formaldehyde foam insulation(rarely used today) and wood products,particularly plywood which uses a urea-formaldehyde glue, often associated withinterior grade or hardwood plywood. Exterioror marine grade plywood typically uses aphenol resin which is much less likely todegrade and release formaldehyde. Somestudies indicate wood bonded with phenolresins emit 10-times less formaldehyde thanthose using a urea- formaldehyde resin. Mostof the formaldehyde emitted by wood comesfrom the exposed end grains.

Formaldehyde affects librarycollections in two principal ways. First, in thepresence of moisture (even very low relativehumidity levels), it will form a weak acid,called formic acid. Formaldehyde also oxidizesto form formic acid. Further, products whichcontain formaldehyde, also usually containformic acid. The chemical reaction isparticularly noticeable under alkalineconditions, meaning that using alkalinebuffering material may actually promote theformation of additional acids in the presenceof materials containing formaldehyde.Formaldehyde not only affects the pH ofpaper, but can alter its color, fade somepigments, and attack the sizing used in somepapers.

Since the chemical breakdown releasingformaldehyde occurs even in the curedproduct, the release of formaldehyde willcontinue virtually indefinitely. Products 10years old have been found to still be releasingformaldehyde. Studies have shown emissions

2C

increase in the presence of high heat andhumidity. Unfortunately, the chemical reactionproducing formic acid will occur with relativehumidities as low as 20%, so maintaining a"normal" library environment will do little toreduce formaldehyde damage to collections. Itis also clear the largest emissions occur duringthe first few months or year of manufacture.Consequently, using products which have beenproperly stored after manufacture will reducethe etuission levels.

While ventilation is sometimes used toreduce formaldehyde levels, increasingventilation three to four times will decrease thelevels by only one-half. This is a relativelysmall return for the investment, even if thisventilation level was practical for libraries(which it isn't). In the past sorbants such asgypsum board or calcium carbonate have beenused to reduce formaldehyde levels. Theseitems can act as a sink, but they are not apermanent removal system and can becomesecondary emitters. Even activated charcoalhas a very low capacity for formaldehyde.Formaldehyde scavengers, such as ammoniumsalts, are both impractical and inappropriatefor use in library settings.

At least one test found that theapplication of a polyurethane or polyesterfinish can reduce formaldehyde emissions bya factor of up to 10 compared with anuncoated sample. The coating, however, mustnot contribute to the environmental pollutionof the library.

Paints and Coatings

The coating of wood-basedconstruction has become common not only foraesthetic reasons, but also to reducemaintenance and improve cleanability.However, many paintings and coatings, are atleast as corrosive as the wood they cover.Libraries should carefully choose thesematerials to enhance preservation efforts, notcreate additional crises.

Polyurethanes are often used as sealers.The most common type is one with an oil-modified formulation. Terms on the label such

17

as "alkyd resin," "in mineral spirits," or "tungoil," are sure signs of an oil-modifiedpolyurethane. This type of product generatesquantities of both formic and acetic acidduring and after curing and should be avoidedin the library setting. Moisture-curedpolyurethanes, which polymerize on contactwith atmospheric moisture, form very toughfinishes but require strict mixing and are toxic.The best choice for libraries appears to be themoisture-borne or latex-type urethanes. Thesegenerate fewer corrosive by-products, butprovide limited vapor barriers. Further, somemay contain urea-formaldehyde and should beavoided.

Standard latex paint is not an effectivevapor barrier, and the large number of rapidlychanged additives may be damaging to somevery sensitive collections. Acrylic paints aregenerally safe but are not very good vaporbarriers. Oil-based paints release a variety oforganic volatile materials as part of the dryingprocess. These can be extremely corrosive tomany materials and should be avoided.

AFM Enterprises produces a line ofSafecoatml paint advertised as nontoxic andnonhazardous. Pace Industries offers a CrystalShieldTM paint designed to be an environmentalsealant. Murco Wall Products, Inc. producesHiponl, which is advertised as not containing"such volatile compounds as ammonia,formaldehyde, ethylene-glycol, or ethyleneglycol butyl ether." Libraries should have theirarchitects investigate the feasibility of usingthese formulations in place of more commonpaints.

Formulations are frequently changedby the various manufacturers and ingredientsare frequently considered proprietary. Ifefforts to obtain the necessary informationfails, the librarians may need to test paintsamples (described below).

Wood Products

As previously discussed, particleboardis never recommended for library constructionbecause of the large quantity of formaldehyde.Likewise, interior grade plywo. will often

2'7'

contain urea- formaldehyde adhesives andshould be avoided. Most exterior gradeplywoods will contain the generally saferphenol- formaldehyde adhesives, although theyare rarely of a quality adequate for casework.

Woods, whether used in plywood, or assolid wood, can also vary greatly in acidity(largely related to the acetic and formic acidspresent). Heat treatments, such as kiln drying,tend to increase the acidity of wood.Heartwoods tend to be more acidic thansapwoods; softwoods are less acidic thanhardwoods. Any wood may be the sourcevolatile organic acids.

Simply put, wood is a very poor choicefor library furniture and furnishings which willcome into contact with books. There is no woodwhich can be safely assumed to be acceptable,and the various coatings and finishings aregenerally unreliable at sealing the wood toprotect the library collections from contactwith a great variety of acids and damaginggases.

Metals

Metals have long been the shelving andstorage material of choice in libraries. Durableand easily fabricated, they have been thoughtto present little danger to collections. Typicallythe metal was protected with a baked enamelfinish, improving the durability and offeringa supposedly inert barrier between the metaland the material being stored. Recently it hasbeen found that when the baked enamel finishis not thoroughly cured, it will emit high levelsof formaldehyde.

Such cabinets or shelving should haveno smell. If, upon opening a new microfilmstorage cabinet or a box of shelving you detecta chemical smell, it is likely that the finish wasnot adequately baked and is off - gassingformaldehyde or solvents. Studies suggest lightcolored shelving will be less thoroughly bakedthan dark colors. Libraries should insist themetals used with a baked enamel finish bethoroughly cured. The specifications can bewritten to require the manufacturer to re-bake

18

the finishes if necessary (paying shipment bothways). Alternatively, the metal shelving orcabinets can be purchased and allowed to airfor at least six months before use. Old stock,which has been sitting, nd airing, in themanufacturer's warehouse would be an idealchoice.

Recently, some manufacturers, such asStacor Corporation of Newark, New Jersey, aremarketing "conservation quality" metal filingsystems. The paint used (a heat-cured acrylicresin modified with a catalyzed melamine inthe case of Stacor) is carefully formulated withnumerous quality controls and the baking cycleis strictly controlled. The baked enamelfinishes produced are superior to commercialgrade finishes and are suitable for most librarymaterials.

Another, but often more expensive,alternative is the use of powder coatings whicheliminate volatile emissions. The paintingprocess uses an electrostatically applied powdercoating of an epoxy polyester hybrid which isoven cured. Manufacturers using thistechnique will guarantee the finish is inert.Several manufacturers offer this finish,including SpaceSaver Corporation and DeltaDesign, Ltd.

In addition to the finish, librariesshould ensure the shelving is smooth, free offittings that could damage collections, and isthe correct size for the material being stored.The shelving should be correctly installed andproperly cross-braced. The importance of thisfeature has been previously discussed in regardto earthquake protection.

The use of compact shelving isattracting considerable interest as librariesattempt to store more materials in less space.Major issues include adequate structuralsupport, which can be easily ensured by yourarchitect (and which will be briefly discussedin the following section on floor loads), as wellas adequate fire safety. The storage of largevolumes of material in compact shelvingcreates a greater fire load per square foot andmakes fire suppression more difficult usingsprinklers. A fire safety engineer- should be

consulted for specific designs. Recent researchhas demonstrated that carefully selectedsprinklers can protect even compact storagewhen the units are designed to allow someminimal space between them with thesprinklers placed closer together.

Fabrics

The primary concern with fabrics inthe library setting is their contribution to thefire load of the structure. But when fabrics arein direct contact with collections, such as inexhibits, they should be selected withadditional preservation issues in mind.

Cotton, linen, nylon, and polyester aregenerally safe, if they are not contaminatedwith processing chemicals. The less dye andfinishing, the safer the fabric will be. Washingin hot water without detergent will reduce thelevel of additives in most fabrics. Polyesterbatting is usually safe for padding.

Flame retardants added to fabric mayincrease the corrosiveness of the material. Itsuse, however, should comply with therequirements of the local jurisdiction havingauthority. Beyond that, its use should also beguided by common sense. If the display isdesigned in such a way as to be a potential firehazard, it is probably best to redesign thedisplay.

Testing

There are several companies offeringtesting for formaldehyde concentrations. One isAir Quality Research, which produces the PF-1 Formaldehyde MonitorTm (distributed byAssay Technology in Palo Alto, California).This passive device is hung in the area to betested for a period of several days, weeks, ormonths and then returned to the company foranalysis. Accurate at very low levels (theoptimum sampling range is 0.020 to 1.2 ppm),it is suitable for a variety of preservationneeds. It cannot, however, be used in sealedcases, since the monitor operates on theprinciple of gaseous diffusion and relies on aminimum face velocity across the diffusionpath entrance. Failure to provide this air

19

movement would result in an underestimate ofthe true airborne concentration. Regardless,this is an excellent monitor for librariesseeking to understand exactly what impactformaldehyde may be having on staff andcollections.

While the Air Quality Research productprovides results in ppm, as a quantifiable test,libraries can also conduct non-quantifiabletests fairly easily. These tests simply alert youto the presence of pollutants that can damagecollections. The advantage is that no specialequipment is needed and the tests can be donefor paints, adhesives, wood, or any othermaterial.

For coatings, the material sLJuld bebrushed onto a small piece of clean glass, suchas a microscope slide. For wood or similarmaterials, a piece to be tested should be cut orremoved from a non- visible area. The sampleshould be placed in a carefully cleaned, rinsedand dried glass (not plastic) jar. Avoid jarswith rubber seal rings or use a piece ofaluminum foil to isolate the ring from the jarcontents.

Use soft steel wool to clean a piece oflead, such as a lead fishing weight. Do thesame with a piece of copper. You may useelectrical wire or even a copper penny. A pieceof silver (a discarded piece of silver platefound at a garage sale will do) should also becleaned using a commercial product, thenrinsed and dried. Wear gloves to avoid gettingfinger oil on the clean metals. These threepieces of metal should be placed in the glassjar with the sample.

Finally, place a lightly moistenedcotton ball in the jar. It is likely the lid will bemetal, so line it with mylar or even aluminumfoil, then seal the jar tightly. Place it on awindow sill that receives warm afternoon sun.

Prepare a similar jar, without a samplebut including the metals, to serve as thecontrol. After a few weeks compare the metalsin the jar with the sample to the metals incontrol jar. Any evidence of corrosionincluding darkening of the metal or powdery

2a

material on the surface on the metals in thesample jar greater than the corrosion seen onthe metals in the control jar indicates that thesample is off - gassing. Lead is easily attacked

20

by acetic and formic acids, silver is attackedby sulfur, and the copper will discolor in thepresence of amines,

FLOOR COVERINGS AND FLOOR LOADING

Floors and Preservation

From a preservation standpoint, theperfect floor has several characteristics:

it does not off-gas anyharmful pollutants,

it does not contribute toparticulate pollution in thelibrary,

it does not support insectinfestation,

it is waterproof or at leastwater-resistant,

it is fireproof, self -extinguishing, or at least willnot contribute significantly tothe fire threat (i.e., a Class 1Interior Floor Finish asdefined by National FireProtection Association 101),and

it is easy to clean.

Of course, libraries frequently add to this 1,stother requirements, wanting a floor coveringthat is quiet, will not show soil and stains, isaesthetically pleasing, is easily maintained, willnot require replacement, and so on. Naturally,when the list is finished it is likely that nofloor covering will meet all of the variousrequirements imposed on it. Consequently, thisdiscussion will concentrate on preservationissues and allow the librarian, designer, andarchitect to weigh all of the various concernsto make the final decision.

There are essentially eight types orclassifications of floor coverings: concrete,tile/brick/stone, wood, vinyl (including vinyl

21

sheet, homogeneous vinyl tile, and vinylcomposition tile), cork, rubber, linoleum, andcarpet. The preservation issues associated witheach are briefly discussed below.

Concrete may be found as theunderfloor in slab construction or as the floorin a variety of multi f icor concrete constructiontechniques. Usually it is covered by one of theother flooring materials since it is often viewedas unattractive, uncomfortable, difficult toclean, and noisy. From a preservationstandpoint, concrete (such as slab over precast)is an acceptable finish, if it is sealed to preventdusting. Often, curing compounds make goodsealers.

Tile brick stone includes a broadrange of materials such as marble, pavingbricks, ceramic tile, and terrazzo. All tend towear well, but are often criticized as beingnoisy, slippery when wet, and difficult tomaintain. All but brick are too hard to "dust"and therefore do not require a sealer. Ingeneral, all are acceptable from a preservationstandpoint. If correctly installed thesematerials are waterproof, thereby containingany flooding which might occur, and are non-combustible.

Wood used as flooring will include bothsoftwoods (very rarely used in commercial orindustrial settings) and hardwood. It may beapplied as strips, parquet, or industrial blocks.Wood is typically criticized as being noisy anddifficult to maintain, especially in high trafficareas. To these are added the preservationconcerns of adhesive off - gassing (in the caseof parquet and blocks), water retention duringflooding, and combustibility.

Vinyl is a commonly used flooringmaterial for libraries. It is less expensive thancork, rubber, and linoleum, although it is oftenslightly noisier (if no felt backing is used).

3i

Glare may be a problem with some vinyl andthese floors are often criticized as appearing"institutional." Some vinyl materials have veryhigh load limits (approaching 200 psi). Themajor preservation concern is the off - gassingof adhesives used to install the vinyl.

Cork has excellent noise reductioncapability and is comfortable. However, it isdifficult to maintain, relatively expensive, andgenerally, lacks durability. Preservationconcerns include primarily the adhesive.

Rubber floorings offer good resistanceto wear, and are comfortable and quiet. Theyare considered very durable, even in high useareas. They should not be used in directsunlight and they do require some specializedmaintenance. Rubber floorings give theimpression of industrial activity, rather thanopulence. Preservation concerns centerprimarily on the composition of the flooring,the adhesives used with the tiles, and thesmoke that might be generated in case of afire. On the other hand, if quietness is a majorconcern, this material may be an acceptablecompromise.

Linoleum, once found in manyinstitutional settings, is rarely seen today.Although inexpensive and relativelycomfortable, it is not considered quiet, offersfew color choices, and requires extensivemaintenance. Preservation concerns includeprimarily the adhesives used to lay the tiles.

Carpet seems to be a common choice inlibraries today, largely because of its perceivedacoustic quality, range of colors, and ability tocreate a luxurious atmosphere. In spite of these(and perhaps other) benefits, there are betterpreservation choices.

The adhesives typically used forinstallation may off -gas a variety of volatileorganic components (VOCs) andformaldehyde, as do some carpets themselves.If carpet must be used, librarians should insistthat the chosen carpet compiles with thevoluntary Carpet and Rug Institute's testingand labeling program. Carpet that meets thepredetermined emission criteria is identified

22

by a green, indoor air quality label on the backof the product. While this will not guaranteethe carpet is free from formaldehyde, it willindicate that it meets certain minimalstandards.

The gradual breakdown of carpetfibers will contribute to the particula:e load inthe library, particularly if maintenance isminimal. Natural- fiber carpets are anattractive food source for many insects. Evensynthetic carpets or those treated with "moth-proofing" provide excellent refuge andharborage for fleas and other insects. In theevent of a flood, carpets will hold atremendous quantity of moisture, elevatingrelative humidity levels and promoting moldgrowth. In multistoried buildings carpets willoffer no containment of water in the event ofleaks. Carpets can be made fire retardant, andif used in a library this characteristic should bea criteria of selection. Finally, carpet cleaningis problematical.

Although maintenance staffs typicallyclaim carpet cleaning is easy with a vacuum,this cleaning is effective only if doneroutinely, and using an appropriate vacuum.Otherwise, little is accomplished beyonddispersing the soil throughout the carpet andinto the air. Manufacturers' claims concerningdurability are usually based on a strict regimenof cleaning. Few libraries have the staff todaily vacuum all carpeted areas. The reductionin maintenance which characterizes manylibraries today is likely to affect carpet moreseriously than other flooring materials.

Eventually carpets will need to be deepcleaned. This is a difficult undertakingrequiring special equipment. Shampooing willintroduce high relative humidity levels into thelibrary and must be done when the carpet candry without traffic.

Typically, planners do not recommendthe use of underlay with carpet in librariesbecause of the increased difficulty rolling bookcarts and wheelchairs. However, many of thebenefits of carpet such as noise reduction anddurability are reduced if no underlay is used.

32

Librarians should realize that the noisereduction qualities of carpet are relativelysmall, compared to a variety of other possibleacoustical design features. In particular, goodquality acoustical panels often have a noisereduction coefficient of .80 to .95. One suchpanel is the Eckel Industries TexturedFunctional Panels (TFPs) or Acoustic Lay-InPanels (ALPs) which have noise reductioncoefficents of .99+. The careful design of thelibrary, using techniques to absorb and blockunwanted noise, as well as careful attention tothe direction and distance of potential noisesources, may eliminate the perceived acousticalbenefits of carpet, definitely benefiting thepreservation of the collections.

Floor Loading

Floor loading is a complex topic that isbest handled by structural engineers. However,it is essential that architects understand thepeculiar nature of library loads. Books, whenstacked together, are heavier than one mightimagine. "Normal" books weigh 25 to 30pounds per single run of a 3 foot shelf three -quarters full. Bound periodicals in a similarsetting will weigh around 55 pounds.Averaging the two, a seven shelf, double-sided stack run 18 feet long with 3 feetbetween ranges in a 22 foot grid square willweigh between 25 pounds per square foot and55 pounds per square foot (books alone, notincluding shelving weights). There will bewide variations in these loads, depending onlocal conditions, and this is offered simply todemonstrate that libraries are very differentfrom other types of structures, at least in thecalculation of imposed or live loads.

Many architects recommend thatlibraries have structural systems capable ofsupporting live loads of 150 pounds per squarefoot for regular stack areas, 300 pounds per

23

square foot for compact shelving, and 500pounds per square foot for map/microformbulk collections. This clearly demonstrates thetremendous variation in library materials andtheir storage.

Typically, architects will not designentire structures for any one live load, muchless the maximum load, unless specificallyinstructed to do so. It is therefore essential thatthe library develop long- term plans prior tothe design phase, considering the possiblefuture use of compact storage of collectionsand the need for future flexibility of storageareas.

At a minimum, it will be useful toobtain, in writing, the live load calculationsused by the architect for various areas of thebuilding. This information will make itpossible to determine in the future whether thestructure will tolerate planned movement ofcollections or installation of new shelvingwithout the cost of an additional evaluation.

It is also important to realize ifcompact shelving is being used, or beingconsidered, fire protection and ventilation arecritical concerns. It is possible to designadequate fire protection for compact storage,but detection devices must be carefully chosen,sprinklers must be placed closer together, andit is beneficial to leave slight openings betweenthe compact shelving units to allow waterpenetration. This space will also improveventilation and reduce problems of mold andmildews.

I LaFollette, Larry L., "Help: We Can't Breathein Here: The Effects of Limited AirCirculation Within Mobile Shelving Units,"Records Management Quarterly (April1991):24-27.

ROOFING

Introduction

It may surprise librarians to learn theroof is actually a low percentage of the totalsquare foot cost of a structure. In spite of this,water penetration is usually the major problemin building construction and maintenance. Oneof the best ways to protect collections fromwater damage is to ensure the integrity of theroof. The process of protecting collectionsbegins at the design stage when the roof typeis selected, continues into construction whenthe selected roof is installed, and finally relieson appropriate maintenance. If proper care istaken in the selection, design, and constructionof the roofing system, much time, money, andaggravation will be avoided later.

Roof assemblies must be designed toresist a number of forces, including water,heat, ultraviolet radiation, traffic, differentialmovement, wind, snow and ice accumulations,fire, and water vapor penetration. In addition,there are related materials that must beincluded in the consideration of roofing, suchas flashing materials, gutters, roof deckinsulation, roof hatches, and skylights. Anyone of these can allow serious waterpenetration and can result in the failure of theroofing system. Consequently, the systemselected should be one that:

has demonstratedperformance in the area wherethe building will be constructed,

has a long life expectancywhen properly installed,

is low maintenance, and

has local support (i.e., atleast one qualified localcontractor who can make futurerepairs).

24

Roof assemblies consist of basicallytwo components: a substrate or deck which isdesigned to resist vertical and horizontal loadsand the roofing which is designed to form abarrier against the elements. The assembliesmay be either pitched (or sloped, typical ofmost residential construction) or flat (typicalof most commercial and industrialconstruction.

Pitched or Fiat Roofs

There is a myth among many librariansthat pitched roofs are less prone to leakingthan flat roofs, perhaps because a pitched roofwill obviously shed water while many peoplebelieve that a flat roof will retain water. Whileindividuals perceive that residential pitchedroofs have relatively few leaks, many librarieswith flat roofs have horror stories of waterdamage.

The problem with this comparison ismost home owners do not avoid the relativelylow maintenance associated with their pitchedroof, while libraries (or their governingauthorities) often delay essential maintenanceor even roof replacement. As a result thefailure of flat roofs stems from inadequateattention, not necessarily from design.

When properly designed andconstructed, flat roofs are not flat. They aretypically designed with adequate slope topromote positive drainage and avoid ponding(or the creation of small, poorly drained bodiesof water on the roof). Flat roofs are providedwith drains, located at low points and sized toensure rapid run -off of water. When the roofalso has a parapet, scuppers must be providedto provide drainage in case the drains becomeclogged. It is helpful to locate scuppers wherethey arc visible; if the scupper is dischargingwater the drains are clogged and needimmediate attention.

34

With attention to selection, design,installation, and maintenance, there is noappreciable difference between the weather-tightness of a pitched and a flat roof. Eitherone will serve adequately for a library.

Types of Roofing

There are essentially four types ofroofing commonly available:

shingles (either metal, slate,tile, wood, or asphalt),

metal sheets or panels,

single ply or membrane, and

built- up.

Shingles

Shingles are watershed materials,meaning that they are not intended to retainwater, only to direct it by means of the roofslope. Consequently, shingles usually require apitch of at least 3 inches per foot (normally 4inches or more) and are not installed on flatroofs. Whether metal, slate, tile, wood orasphalt, shingles typically consist ofoverlapping or interlocking units of a generallysmall size.

Slate and tile roofs are rarely used inlibrary construction because of the costinvolved and the craft level of skill requiredfor proper installation (the cost of a squarer ofslate, installed, is approximately $700, the costof clay tile is approximately $500, compared toabout $300 for asphalt shingles). In addition,these materials typically weigh two to threetimes that of asphalt shingles, requiring morecareful design of the roof system. In spite ofthese drawbacks, good tiles or slates may havea serviceable life of 60 to 100 years, farexceeding that of other materials.Consequently, the initial cost of slate and tile

A "square" is a term used to describe100 square feet of roof area.

25

roofs may be offset by replacement andmaintenance costs usually associated with otherroofing systems.

Wood shakes also are rarely used, inspite of similar installation costs to asphaltshingles because of their lower fire rating andgreater water vapor penetration.

Asphalt shingles include those with anorganic felt base and those with a fiberglassbase. The life span of organic felt shingles isshorter than fiberglass shingles which have arated service life of about 20 years. Thefiberglass shingles do not absorb moisture asreadily as organic felt shingles and thereforeprovide better resistance to moisturepenetration. Fiberglass shingles also typicallyhave a higher fire rating (UL Class A rating)than organic felt (UL Class C) shingles. Aheavy grade of shingle (at least 330 lb.) isessential for library construction.

There are metal (primarily steel andaluminum) shingles with a service lifeexceeding asphalt shingles. Costs are onlyslightly higher. Some come in prefabricatedpanels, reducing the cost of installation. Manycan be applied over asphalt shingles duringrenovation (assuming that the roof deck cansupport the additional weight).

Where shingles are to be used, thelibrary should carefully consider the use ofeither slate or tile because of the long servicelife of these materials and the lowmaintenance. Where the initial costs of slate ortile cannot be carried by the building program,but shingles are desired, the next choice ofmaterial should be metal shingles. Finally,fiberglass shingles can be used. Librariesshould avoid organic felt asphalt shingles, aswell as wood shakes.

Metal Sheet Roofing

Metal roofing systems may be dividedinto two groups: preformed and formed.Preformed metal roofs include materials suchas aluminum and steel sheets often used onutility and storage buildings. Preformed metalroofing materials are generally not used in

library construction.

Formed metal roofing is found onsloped roofs that are covered with some baseor decking material such as plywood. Typicallythis type of roofing is more aesthetic thaneconomical, costing three to eight times asphaltshingles. Offsetting these costs may be thelongevity of this roofing material which canlast anywhere from 20 to 100 years, dependingon material, installation, and maintenance.Typical materials include copper, lead, andzinc alloy. Flat sheets are joined by tool-formed batten-seam, flat-seam, or standing-seam joints. Solder or adhesive is subsequentlyapplied.

Libraries considering the use of metalsheet roofing should expect the higher costsince that is usually associated with a highergrade of material (i.e., 20 oz. rather than 16 oz.copper, .040 inch rather than .020 inch zincalloy and so forth). The library should ensurethat the roofing is attached in such a way towithstand severe winds.

Single Ply or Membrane Roofing

Single ply roofing includes primarilyelastomeric materials although there are bothmodified bitumens (MB) and reinforcedmodified bitumens (MB/R) that are used inre-roofing existing membrane roofs (seebelow).

As the name implies, this type ofroofing forms a continuous membrane orcovering over the entire roof deck which istypically "flat." Some types are applied loose-laid and ballasted with gravel (the mosteconomical), while others are either partiallyor fully adhered to the roof deck. Onlymechanically fastened, fully adhered roofing isrecommended in high wind areas.

Elastomeric roofing includes a widerange of materials such as EPDM (ethylenepropylene diene monomer), neoprene(polychoroprene), CSPE (hypalon orchlorosulfonated polyethylene), and CPE(chlorinated polyethylene). Each type hasadvantages and disadvantages. For example,

26

hypalon is very resistant to ozone and superiorto neoprene in resisting ultraviolet radiation,heat, and abrasion. It is also not combustible.Since it cannot be applied over an existingasphalt membrane roof, its use is limited in re-roofing applications.

The life span of this roofing is around20 years and the cost ranges between $3 and $7per square foot ($300 to $700 per square; thelower end of this scale is roughly equal to thatof high quality asphalt shingles on a pitchedroof).

Failure in membrane roofing canusually be traced to a limited number ofproblems. Perhaps the most common isimproper selection, design, or installation.Strict adherence to the manufacturer'srecommendations is essential. Penetrationsmade in flat roofs for vents, skylights, andHVAC equipment should be minimized, andshould follow carefully the manufacturer'srecommendations. The next most commonsource of problems is the treatment the roofingmaterial receives after installation. Themembrane can be punctured by heavyequipment and construction debris.Identification of these holes, often no largerthan 1/16-inch, can be both difficult and timeconsuming.

A library anticipating a flat roof using:astomeric roofing should discuss a number of

specific issues with the architect, including:

the use of only mechanicallyfastened, fully adheredmembranes,

the roof's resistance toweathering and air pollution,

the tensile strength and"crack -bridging" capacity ofthe various materials,

water vapor transmission,

resistance to impact,puncturing, and foot traffic,and

3V

effects. of deckimperfections.

Built-Up Roofing

A built-up roof is composed of threedifferent and distinct elements: felt, bitumen,and surfacing. The felts, which are typicallymade of fiberglass or organic material, servemuch the same purpose of reinforcing rods inconcrete, providing tensile strength to theroofing material. Applied in layers, the feltsalso allow more bitumen to be applied,:creasing the waterproofing ability of the

roof. The most common built-up systemsavailable contain 2, 3, or 4 layers of felt.Bitumen, either coal-tar pitch or asphalt, isboth the waterproofing and also the "glue" thatholds the roofing material together. Thesurfacing may be gravel, slag, or a mineral-coated cap. Regardless of exact material, itsfunction is two- fold: to protect the bitumenfrom attack by solar radiation and chemicaloxidation (providing a "wear-surface") and toprovide a fire-retardant coating.

It is particularly essential in built-uproofing that adequate drainage is provided.Water that is allowed to pool, or pond, on theroof will cause premature breakdown of theorganic felts, blistering, and may loosen theprotective aggregate. Standing water on built-up roofing will significantly reduce its lifespan and should be carefully avoided.

The life span of carefully appliedbuilt-up roof systems is typically 20 years,while those of inferior quality may last as fewas five years. The cost of a well constructedroof may be about $200 per square.

Considering cost and service life, built-up roofing is an economical choice, whichcertainly accounts for its wide-spread use oncommercial and industrial buildings. Failuresof this type of roofing are more often relatedto improper installation than to the materialsused. If built-up roofing is to be used by alibrary, several precautions should be taken:

at least three and preferablyfour fiberglass felts should be

27

used,

any voids under the roofingshould be provided withventilation to preventinterstitial condensation,

roof voids should beprotected from warm, damp airrising from the occupied spacethrough the use of vaporbarriers,

the roof should be carefullyinsulated since flat roofs havethe greatest heat losses inwinter and heat gains insummer,

special care should be takento insure adequate detailingaround flashings, upstands,parapets, and so forth,

installation should avoidtrapping moisture betweenfelts or the deck and roofing,and

careful attention should begiven to proper drainage of theroof surface.

Roof Drainage

While roofing materials are intended toeither shed water (singles) or provide awaterproof membrane (single-ply roofing),some provision must always be made totransport water off the roof and away from thebuilding. On pitched roofs this is accomplishedby adequately sized gutters and downspoutswhich transport the water at least 10 feet awayfrom the building and preferably into a stormwater drainage system.

On "flat" roofs this drainage isaccomplished by roof drains with pipingsometimes located within columns. While thisapproach often reduces construction costs, itshould be avoided since drains located near (orwithin) columns may turn out to be at high

points since there will be no deflection in theseareas. Likewise, drains at the midspan offraming will be inappropriate if the framingmembers have been fabricated with an

28

excessive camber. Typically, small, but moreclosely spaced drains are preferable to fewer,but larger drains.

3

ELECTRICAL AND PLUMBING CONCERNS

Electrical Issues

The single most important preservationissue in planning electrical service for newlibrary construction or renovation is the strictcompliance with the National Electrical Codeof the National Fire Protection Association(latest applicable, NFPA 70-1993). If localjurisdictions do not have an electrical code thelibrary should insist the NEC provisions arefollowed, both for the safety of staff andpatrons and for the safety of the collections.

Several code-related issues are ofspecial importance. The first is the use ofGround-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCIs).Typically required in bathrooms, garages,outdoor receptacles at grade level, near watersources, and so forth, they are intended todisconnect the power supply swiftly enough toprevent accidental electrocutions. In addition,they reduce the fire risk.

Under flood disaster conditions it maybe necessary to use wet vacs, fans,dehumidifiers or similar electrical equipmentin the library structure (particularly in thestacks). Consequently, the library should ensurethat GFCIs are provided on a large number of15- and 20-amp outlets, especially in stackareas. This will help ensure the safety oflibrary personnel during disaster recoveryoperations. If all outlets are not GFCIequipped, those which are should be clearlymarked and the staff should be educated abouttheir use.

A second major issue is the clear andcentral location of the main electrical servicedisconnect. All electrical service is providedwith a point at which the conductors withinthe structure can be disconnected from theservice-entrance conductors. This locationshould be clearly marked, accessible to thestaff (but not patrons), and should be clearly

29

marked with disconnect instructions.

A third issue is the clear marking of allcircuit breakers in the various panels. This isessential if the staff is to respond to limiteddisaster situations, such as localized flooding orstructural damage. The electrical contractorshould have this task clearly outlined in thebid package.

A fourth issue is the need foremergency power. Large scale emergencypower using standby generators is typicallybeyond the budget or need of small librariesand power for various emergency signage andlights is typically provided by rechargeablebatteries. Even small libraries can afford thenew generation of uninterruptable powersupplies (UPS) for computers and similaressential electronic equipment. A well-designed UPS will continue to provideuninterrupted computer-grade power whenutility power fails; continuously clean rawutility power to prevent damaging sags, spikes,and surges; dynamically respond to loadchanges; provide spike and noise attenuation;and handle start-up surges. The new UPS haveferroresonant transformers and are dual track(one example is the Micro- Ferrups producedby Best Power Technology, P.O. Box 280,Necedah, Wisconsin), These can be either hardor soft wired, but the library should determineexactly what its needs are early in the planningprocess.

A fifth issue of vital concern is the useof polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) dielectricfluid in transformers and capacitors. Foundtoday primarily in older equipment andbuildings, PCBs are highly toxic and long-lasting, suspected of causing a variety of birthdefects, cancer, liver damage, and otherdiseases. The Environmental ProtectionAgency regulates the use of PCBs and labelingof both new and existing equipment containing

3D

dielectric fluid in the provisions of 40 CFR761 (Figure 2). If contained, the PCBs poselittle hazard. The most serious threat is duringa fire PCBs could be spread throughout thelibrary, contaminating both the building andits contents (an example of such a disaster wasthe February 5, 1981 explosion and fire in theNew York State Binghamton building).

lik..1%.%.1111CAUTION

CONTAINS

PCBsA low on,anntne.... qaucron9WON hbm:Ping (1.1,013.. MCO,C.Ce.1h 115 Enve.ne,eni. Peolecl.Gri Awe,Regoanons GO CO. '61f for CNSPOSM WPM, 14loon Con1.1 Int efPf 41 US I 011.1f

Co.,, Goan] NA1.0-A, Atseonit Genie,In case ACOOtn11. yp.o. C.,t1V1bee. 1, US

(Polychlorinated Biuhenyisi

800 424.8802

The deiectoc fluid in this unit hat 1111

been !Wed hi determine the amountof polychlorinated tophentlist (PCSLenten') We ceebty that based on thetest sample. the flthd contained lessthan 50 oon, Pa and is Thereforeclassified a non ICE as delintd in the*gust 25. 19112.1f01.47 No 165 ofths Fedefal Reksfer

11&Figure 2. Examples of PCB signage.

A final issue that is often overlooked isthe need for surge and lightning protection.The entire Southeast is at risk of lightingstrikes that can destroy sensitive equipment,damage structures, cause fires, and placepatrons and staff at risk. South Carolinaaverages 50 to 60 days a year withthunderstorms, while southern Georgiaaverages 70 and parts of Florida average 90 to100. A lightning protection system is anintegrated arrangement of air terminals,bonding connections, arresters, splicers, andother fittings installed on a structure in orderto safely conduct lightning discharges to theground. Such systems should be listed byUnderwriters Laboratories and are covered byNational Fire Protection Association 78:Lightning Protection Code.

30

Plumbing Issues

This section might be more accuratelyentitled "Concerns with Water" since plumbingtechnically covers only water distributionsystems and our concerns are somewhatbroader. In fact, they begin with the siting andlandscaping of the library structure.

Too often such buildings are semi-subterranean, leading to immediate problemswith water seepage, high moisture levels, andmold growth. If the preservation concerns areoverwhelmed by aesthetics or energy issues,then the library must ensure that the building isadequately protected from moisture. Failure todo so will result in a series of other problemsthat will have major cost implications.

Dampproofing is a below - grade surfacecoating intended to reduce the migration ofmoisture. It is not effective when there ishydrostatic pressure. Typically, the deeper thestructure, the greater the hydrostatic pressure.Waterproofing prevents the entry of water thatis under pressure by forming a continuousmembrane around the walls, through footings,and under or within concrete floor slabs.Waterproofing will include dampproofing;however, dampproofing never incorporateswaterproofing. One example of waterproofingis the Tuff -N -Drip system by Owens CorningFiberglass. This system consists of a polymer -modified asphalt spray applied to the exteriorconcrete and a combination insulation anddrainage board placed against the membrane.This board also serves to protect the membranefrom backfilling (Figure 3).

A number of serious moisture problemsin libraries can be traced back to inadequateconcern for waterproofing and/or the failureof various corrective efforts. When anadequate waterproofing system has not beenprovided, has been improperly applied, or hasbeen damaged (perhaps during construction)the solution will require extensive and costlywork. Often it will be necessary not only toexcavate around walls to install, or re-install,waterproofing, but it will also be necessary toconstruct French drains to reduce thehydrostatic pressure.

40

TUFF-N-DRI ExteriorFoundation

Waterproofing

WARM-N-DRIDrainage And

Pink FiberglassInsulation Board

Drain Tile

Figure 3. Example of a waterproofing systemfor basements.

The gradingplan should also becarefully reviewed by the library. Make surethe exterior surfaces slope away from thebuilding (many architects recommend at leasta 1% slope away from the building). Avoid anyplan in which the ground surface is eitherlevel, or actually slopes toward the structure.There should be exterior area drains (typicallyclosed drains in an urban setting) connected tothe stormwater system that cover any low areasand access points to the structure. Gratesshout be designed oversize to prevent thebuildup of water and for a safety margin onthe commonly used "clog factor." Librariesrarely have adequate maintenance staff toensure that drains are always free of debris.Oversizing drains in the planning process ismuch less expensive than either additionalmaintenance staff, or disaster recovery whenthe institution is flooded.

Moving into the structure, one of thefirst concerns should always be the location ofwater and waste water pipes. Pipes (other thanthose associated with fire sprinkler systems)should be avoided in the collection and othersensitive areas. This can be accomplished byrequiring specific routing be developed earlyin the planning process, rather than allowing

31

the routing to be determined by the plumbingcontractor.

If specific routing cannot totallyeliminate piping in collection areas, there areseveral choices that should be examined by theinstitution:

double-walled pipes oftenprovide an extra degree ofsafety. These are likely to bebeyond the resources of mostlibraries, but they should beconsidered.

water pipes can be routedalong walls, rather thandirectly overhead. Thisapproach may help to minimizedamage in the event of a leak.

protective aprons can beinstalled under pipes tochannel the water to a drain oraway from books.

the institution can installvarious water alarms or leakdetectors in areas suspectableto leaks and damage. Oneexample is the Water Alert* byDor len Products, 7424 W.Layton Avenue, Milwaukee,Wisconsin 53220. These can beused singly, or wired to a

central alarm station. Dor lenalso distributes the CeilingGuard*, which is used todetect water leakage in falseceiling areas.

coupled with these otherapproaches (and certainlyabsent any other approach), theinstitution should re- emphasizethe importance of installing allshelving a minimum of 4inches off the floor (thisapproach also aids in cleaningand pest control) and usingcanopies over all ranges.

1

Related to the use of overhead spacefor water pipes is the frequent condensationassociated with these pipes (most often coldpiping operating below the ambient dew pointin institutions with inadequatedehumidification). Occasionally this problemwill also be associated with uninsulated metalHVAC ducts. While often this problem resultsin little more than occasional inconvenienceand stained ceiling tiles, it can substantiallyraise the relative humidity, damage collections,and cause other problems. The solution is toensure adequate insulation, vapor barrier,weatherproofing,if necessary, and appropriatehangers for all pipes and ducts.

The library should be sited so that sumppumps are unnecessary. However, if suchpumps are needed, fail safe features must bedesigned into the plan. The pumps must beadequate to handle the worst expected case,emergency electrical power should beprovided, and redundancy should be designedinto the system.

Just as it was important to clearly markelectrical disconnects, it is essential to markboth the exterior (street) disconnect valve, aswell as the interior disconnect valve. While

Figure 4. Example of water disconnectsignage.

ideally all staff members will be trained todisconnect the water, signage should be

32

installed providing simple instructions (Figure4). City water disconnects are independentfrom sprinkler main controls, and while thestaff should know the location of the sprinklermain, this system should never be turned offexcept by authorized repair firms and the firedepartment.

There are a number of additional watersources in a building. For example, the HVACsystem will produce condensate (and somesystems may use chilled water for cooling andhot water for heating and dehumidification).Consequently, all mechanical rooms, rest rooms,janitor closets, and hot water tank storagerooms should have floor drains, the floorsshould be designed to be waterproof, and floorsshould slope town rd the drain. All interiordrains should be equipped with a backwaterpreventer valve. This will prevent backflow ofwater into the facility. In high risk areas suchas mechanical rooms, it may be appropriate toinstall a curb around the rim of the room,including the door area, to contain any waterin the one room.

Sewer cleanouts are always necessary,but they should be located, if possible, outsidethe building. They should never be locatedwithin the stacks or in special collection areas.

All spigots, both those outdoor forlandscape work and those inside formaintenance purposes, should be secured fromvandalism. Handles may be removed, whichwill eliminate opportunistic vandalism, but notmore determined individuals. Alternatively,the spigots can be installed in lockable boxes.This latter approach provides more security,assuming that maintenance staff lock the boxesafter each use.

Additional Concerns

Additional electrical and waterconcerns are discussed in the sections on firesafety (sprinklers and fire hoses), security(power failures), roofing (weather proofing),and pest control. These sections should beconsulted for additional information.

4)

INTERIOR LIGHTING

Introduction

Lighting is basic to the design of newlibrary facilities since it not only allows objectsto be seen, but also exerts psychologicalinfluences on staff and patrons. The designerwill be concerned with a wide range of topics,including reflective and direct glare, contrast,color rendition and temperature, reflectivequalities, intensity, and color constancy. Theseissues include aesthetics, scale, shape, energyconsumption, life expectancy, ease of cleaning,availability of replacement parts, and cost ofreplacement of various fixtures used.

Turning first to light, theelectromagnetic spectrum includes visible lightor white light in the center, with infrared orIR at the upper or right end (with longwavelengths) and ultraviolet or UV at thelower or left end (with short wavelengths)(Figure 5). It is important to understand thatwhile unfiltered daylight includes all of thesewavelengths in some proportion, differenttypes of lamps produce different spectrums.Hence you have "cool" fluorescent tubes whichemphasize the blue end of the spectrum and

"warm" fluorescent tubes which emphasize thered end of the spectrum.

Illumination may be measured in eitherfootcandles or lux. The approximateconversion is:

1 footcandle = 11 lux, or1 lux = 0.09 footcandle.

A footcandle is defined as one lumen persquare foot, while a lux is defined as onelumen per square meter. Measurements can bemade using a light meter designed specificallyfor such work, reading in either footcandles orlux. Alternatively, a camera with a built- inlight meter can be pressed into service forapproximations (see Appendix I).

Since UV is a component of visiblelight it is common to measure UV as aproportion of total light, or as microwatts perlumen (pw/lumen). At the present time thereis only one instrument manufactured thatprovides reasonably reliable UV levels - - the

Cosmic rays1

Gammarays

X rays Infrared I Radar

I FMTV Raft'

Shortwave

Sound

to" l'o" tie \ 1'0"/

/

Vruble light

Wavelength nanometers (10- 'meters; ``403 500 600 700

101' 101° 10' 10' 10' 100 60Frequency in hertz (cycles per second)

800

Far UV VwsletIndio

Near uv Blue

GreenYellow

Orange

Red 780Infrared

HMI'S

Figure 5. Electromagnetic spectrum (adapted from Benjamin Stein, John S. Reynolds, and WilliamJ. McGuinnes, Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings, Seventh Edition, 1986,John Willey & Sons, New York.)

33

BEST COPY AVAILABLE

Crawford UV monitor (manufactured byLittlemore Scientific Engineering Co., RailwayLane, Littlemore, Oxford OX4 4PZ, England).

Turning from light to the varioussources and fixtures, the design of lightingfixtures is almost limitless. There are,however, basically four light sources used forinterior lighting: daylight, incandescent,fluorescent, and high-intensity discharge(HID) lamps. For a variety of reasons, themost common are daylight and fluorescent.

The ordinary domestic electric lightbulb is referred to as the incandescent ortungsten lamp. Typical UV emissions are 60 to80 pw/lumen, establishing a standard for otherlighting. Tungsten lamps are short-lived,produce a relatively harsh light, and areexpensive to operate and replace. Anadaptation is the tungsten-halogen, or quartz-halogen. More efficient and producing awhiter light, this lamp also produces very highlevels of UV (upwards of 130 pw/lumen witha glass filter). Incandescent lamps producerelatively large amounts of heat (for example,94% of the electricity used with a 100 watttungsten bulb is converted into heat, only 6%is converted into light).

High-intensity discharge (HID) lamps,including mercury and sodium vapor lamps,are typically not used for interior lightingbecause of their poor color rendition althoughthe new generation mercury lamps havesignificantly improved color rendition. Metalhalide lamps have better color rendition andare occasionally used in libraries. All HIDlamps produce very large amounts of UVradiation (400+ pw/lumen) and must becarefully filtered for interior use. Liketungsten-halogen lamps, metal-halide willproduce a significant rise in temperaturewhich can be damaging to collections.

Fluorescent lamps are probably thesingle most common lighting element inlibraries. While they are cooler than the otherlamps, they too generate heat especially thecontrol equipment or ballast. UV emissionsfrom fluorescent lamps range up to about 650pw/lumen, although most produce about 100 to

34

200 pw/lumen.

Recently, a new type of lamp hasbeen developed which may find use in libraries- the E- Lamp or Electric Lamp. Whilelooking like an incandescent bulb, it willactually operate more like a fluorescent lamp.Benefits include a long life (perhaps 30,000hours), no flickering or buzzing, and a warmyellow color. Unfortunately, it is likely thatthese bulbs will also be high emitters of UVrays. Libraries should be very cautious in theuse of these new bulbs.

The Threat

Since light is also physical or radiantenergy, it causes the deterioration of virtuallyall organic materials. Many dyes and pigmentswill fade over time with exposure to light.Paper, microfilm, and other materials willdeteriorate. These effects are noticed in thelibrary as furniture fabrics and carpets fade,book bindings, especially spines, fade, paperyellows and becomes brittle, artworks fade,and wall coverings yellow. The cost to thelibrary involves early replacement of books,and increased maintenance of the building andits furnishings.

In 1952 the National Bureau ofStandards published a study that estimated thelevel of damage to low-grade paper caused bythe different parts of the spectrum orwavelengths. In general, the study found thereis an exponential increase in damage as thewavelength becomes shorter toward theultraviolet end of the spectrum.

While all light is damaging, UV issignificantly more damaging to librarymaterials than other sources. Natural light is ofparticular concern since it has an extremelyhigh level of UV component compared to otherlighting sources. For example, the UV light ina blue sky is about 1600 pw/lumen. Even thelight from a cloudy or overcast north sky cancontain 800 pw/lumen of UV radiation. "Safe"lighting from an ordinary tungsten light emitsfrom 60 to 80 pw/lumen of UV light, andfluorescent lights produce around 100 to 200pw/lumen of UV radiation.

44

Light damage is cumulative and it isthe total dose or exposure matters in thepreservation of collections. Put very simply,one hour of exposure to bright daylight with1600 pw/lumen of UV produces the samedamage as 32 hours exposure to a lightproducing 50 pw/lumen UV. Or 100 lux ofvisible light for 8 hours will produce the samedamage as 50 lux for 16 hours.

In the final analysis, UV only increasesthe damaging effect of light. Even if a perfectUV filter existed to eliminate all of the UVrays, light would still produce noticeabledamage to many collections and buildingcontents. One study found that UV filtereddaylight was three times as damaging as anequal amount of light from an tungsten lamp.

Therefore, a conservation environmentfor light sensitive materials is established toreduce visible light to 50 lux and UV radiationto no more than 75 pw/lumen. Someauthorities suggest that reading work areas canallow up to 660 lux for short periods. Formaterials of moderate light sensitivity, visiblelight levels should be kept under 600 lux andUV should be limited to no more than 75pw lumen. In both cases direct sunlight shouldbe consistently avoided.

The Use of Light

Light is typically used in libraries intwo ways - - as either ambient lighting or astask lighting. It is important to understand thedifferences.

Ambient lighting defines the generalexperience of the library visitor, conveying apsychological mood within the interior space.Used correctly, ambient lighting provides theexperience of not being confined within anenclosed space. Ambient lighting will changethrough the day and through the seasons. Manyarchitects feel daylight provides extraordinarycolor and psychological bene fits. Consequently,a large number of libraries are composed ofextensive walls of glass to provide naturaldaylight essential in ambient lighting. It isappropriate to observe that an equal number ofinstitutions are built with little or no ambient

35

light, causing no discomfort among patrons.

Ambient lighting is often seen as aserious threat to the preservation of collectionssince it allows large amounts of both visibleand ultraviolet light to impact collections.Naturally it is much easier to eliminatedaylight than to control it, if its color andpsychological benefits are discounted.Consequently, the ideal goal for libraries is todevelop ways of using the good qualities ofambient light, while protecting collections fromdirect exposure.

Such approaches include using piercedvaults and courtyards to introduce ambientlight into the building. Other institutions haveused fixed vertical light monitors which allowthe light to enter the structure indirectly,bouncing off designed surfaces and beingcontrolled by the configuration of the monitor.

If the decision to use daylight has beenmade, vertical monitors also reduce thepotential of water leakage and condensation sofrequently associated with horizontal lights,such as skylights.

There are several techniques discussedbelow that can be used to filter UV light. Onethat is particularly useful when ambient lightis bounced off surfaces is a UV-absorbingmaterial. A variety of white paints containingtitanium dioxide, lead white, or zinc white willsignificantly reduce UV radiation. If thisapproach is selected, it is essential that futuremaintenance operations consistently use a UVabsorbing paint.

Task lighting, in contrast, illuminateswork areas, book stacks, and similar areas,without significant regard for its effect on theoverall physical space. Task lighting iscontrolled by three factors: the spatialdistribution of the lights, the intensity of thelight sources, and the spectral or colordistribution of the lights.

The exact level of task lightingnecessary has historically been a controversialsubject. European libraries typically use alower level than those in the United States,

dr=

where the levels have gradually increasedthrough the early twentieth century. Recentevidence that much lower levels are acceptablehas gained ground. This is supported by theneed to reduce utility costs, since lighting canaccount for as mu(:h as 10% of running,cleaning, and maintenance costs at a library.

The 1981 edition of the IlluminatingEngineering Society Lighting Handbooksuggests 55 to 110 lux for inactive stacks, 220to 550 lux for active stacks, book repair andbinding areas, cataloging, circulation, andfrom 220 to 550 lux for reading and referencerooms. Some authorities suggest that levels of300 lux are adequate for most tasks, as long asthere are a few areas of higher intensity fordifficult to read materials or for people withimpaired vision. These general levels succeedin keeping the visible light in the low hundredsand are acceptable for the preservation of mostlibrary materials. Architects and librariansshould remember that in stack areas patronsneed only enough light to find books -- not toread them. Following this dictate willsignificantly reduce the light damage tocollections.

UV Filtration

There are a variety of ways to dealwith UV radiation. It should be emphasizedthat it is essential to avoid having daylight fallon collections. Natural light passing throughfilters is far more harmful to most collectionsthan incandescent light. Therefore, ambientdaylight should be limited to public areas andexcluded from collection areas. Where it isused in reading rooms, it should be filtered toreduce the cumulative effects on collections.

The ideal UV filtering material willprevent all UV down to 400 nm from passingthrough, but will not hinder the passage ofvisible light. Tru Vue (Tru Vue, Inc., 1315North Branch St., Chicago, IL 60622, 1-800 -282-8878) produces a clear ConservationSeriesTm glass which blocks 99+% of the UVlight. At the present time it is primarilyproduced as a round disk and is used as a filterfor halogen lamps. Somewhat more commonare a variety of plastic UV- absorbing filters.

36

Thee filters are available as:

self- supporting acrylic orpolycarbonate sheets 3 to 6 mmthick which can be used inplace of glass in windows iffire regulations allow or beused as an interior glazing (oneexample is Plexiglas.) OF -3manufactured by Rohm &Haas),

thin foil, usually acetate,which can be cut and adheredto glass such as that producedby Solar Screen, or

a thin foil sandwichedbetween glass (one example isDenglas. manufactured byDenton Vacuum).

Each type of filter has certaincharacteristic limitations. For example, acrylicsheets are liable to acquire an electrostaticcharge, attracting dust and even pigment frompastel or charcoal sketches when used asglazing for artworks. Most acrylic sheets havea slightly yellow tint. Foils can be easilyscratched or damaged. Foil sandwiched in glasshas certain benefits, including increaseddurability and perhaps an increased lifespan.

There remains debate regarding thepermanence of these various materials,although recent research suggests the plastic oracrylic carrier is likely to age and deterioratebefore the UV filtering capacity issignificantly reduced. Another test found onlya 10% loss of filtration capability over 15 yearsof high intensity use. A cautious approachwould be to recommend such filters be testedon a yearly basis after five years of use.Routine replacement is not warranted unlessindicated by a UV test.

The high levels of UV radiation emittedby fluorescent lights can be controlled eitherthrough filtering or the use of low-UV lamps.Three types of filters are available forfluorescent fixtures:

46

thin, flexible plastic sleeveswhich fit around thefluorescent tube,

rigid plastic tubes which slipover the fluorescent tube andare maintained in place withend caps, and

rigid plastic filtersincorporated into thefluorescent fixture.

The first two approaches are more commonsince the last tends to limit the number offixtures the designer can use. The varioustubes have been criticized as trapping heataround the fluorescent tube and shortening itslifespan. Tubes and sleeves can also betroublesome to maintenance crews with theresult that they will be left off during routinereplacements. The tubes cost upwards of fivetimes more than the sleeves. Both will retaintheir UV absorbing properties for at least 10years, although it is appropriate to beginyearly testing after five years of use.

Fluorescent tubes emitting less than 75mw/lumen of UV (called low-UV lamps) donot require the use of a filter, resulting insome cost savings. It is important to comparethe cost of a regular fluorescent lamp withfilter to the cost of a low-UV lamp todetermine which is most appropriate for yourinstitution. Less easy to calculate are thebenefits of avoiding tubes and sleeves whichmust be changed by maintenance personneland the decreased life span of sleeved or tubedlamps. Examples of low -VV fluorescent lampsare provided in Appendix II.

Interim Improvements

Any reduction in light levels will savemoney, reduce photochemical damage to thecollections, and probably reduce cooling costsby reducing heat gain.

Encourage staff and patrons to turnlights off or install automatic timers(available for both incandescent andfluorescent lamps) in closed stacks or

37

controlled access areas such as specialcollections.

Lower light levels by removingfluorescent lamps from fixtures anddisconnecting the unused ballasts.

Lower light levels by replacingstandard lamps with energy efficientlamps, but be sure that UV emissionsare controlled by filters. A standardincandescent lamp can be used in placeof PAR lamps in track and socketlights, ,ignificantly reducing intenseillumination and reducing costs. Somemanufacturers have guides toreplacement lamps, showing thesavings resulting from variousreplacements (one example is PhilipsLighting Lamp Specification GuideSG -100).

Use light and dust covers ofunbleached muslin over the front ofshelves in special collection or closedstack areas. This will reduce lightlevels falling on the books and will alsoreduce particulate contamination.

Consider blocking off windows instack areas. Alternatively, hang UVabsorbing sheets in front of thesewindows or apply UV absorbing film.

Examine options for re-arrangingfurnishings to reduce the exposure ofcollections to direct sunlight.

If blinds are in place on exteriorwindows encourage their consistentuse. Post signs requesting that thepublic not tamper with the blinds,explaining sunlight damage. If blindsare not present, install them.

1"1

HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING

Introduction

Heating, ventilation, and airconditioning (HVAC) is a frequentlytroublesome area of preservation. Architectsoften fail to understand the importance of apreservation quality HVAC, instead specifyingunits that are better suited to commercialconstruction. Librarians often don't know howto describe correctly what they need, or whatthe problems are with the existing system. Andpreservationists often fail to allow any latitudein the development of an affordablepreservation quality environment. As a result,units are often designed and installed whichfail to provide any constant, stable source ofhumidity, temperature, and air quality control.

The importance of the environment inwhich collections are stored should be clearlyrealized. For example, for approximately every14° F rise in temperature, the deteriorationrate of paper doubles. Some researchers havesuggested this increase in deterioration may befound with as little as a 7° F rise intemperature.

Humidity is often associated with anincreased probability of mold growth or insectinfestation. Levels at 60% RH should beconsidered the threshold for damage - - overthat level the library is likely to eventuallyhave trouble. Since paper is hygroscopic, thehumidity levels will also affect its dimensionalstability. For example, a wood board one footin length can vary up to one inch in lengthbetween 10% and 90% RH. Overly high RHlevels can distort paper, while low levels canmake paper brittle. High relative humiditylevels can also accelerate deteriorationpromoted by acids in the paper, a processknown as acid hydrolysis.

The quality of the air in the librarywill also affect preservation. Particulates are

38

often abrasive and may permanently soil paper.Organic particulates, such as "dusts," are alsoperfect hosts for mold. Particulates in thelibrary will also increase user discomfort andincrease maintenance costs. In the Southeastthe annual average airborne dustconcentrations ranges from a high of about 90Ng /m3 in the Kentucky area to a low of about48 .ig /m3 in New Orleans.

Gaseous contaminants, such as nitrogendioxide and sulfur dioxide, can attack paperby conversion to acids. Ozone is a powerfuloxidant, breaking apart every carbon doublebond, and severely damaging all organicmaterial. Surprising sources of ozone occurwithin every library building -- most notablyin photocopiers and laser printers. The effectof formaldehyde on collections has beenpreviously discussed in the section The LibraryInterior.

The goal of any building program orrenovations involving the HVAC system shouldbe to provide equipment that will help, nothinder, the preservation of the librarymaterials. This means maintaining appropriatehumidity and temperature levels, providingclean, filtered air, and reducing the levels ofpollutants in the air.

The degree of protection provided willbe somewhat dependent on the funds availableto the library. The protection of the collectionsmust also be tempered against making thelibrary user friendly. Few patrons will want towait for their book or microfilm to be removedfrom the freezer and allowed to warm to roomtemperature, and few people will want to usea library maintained at an even 60° F yearround. Humidity levels of 30% may be goodfor paper and film, but they may alsocontribute to upper- respiratory infectionsamong staff and patrons.

All of this should not make thecreation of a preservation environment soundimpossible. With some work and thecooperation of your architect, it is possible andwill make the library a healthier and friendlierplace for collections, staff and patrons.

The Ideal

When a preservation qualityenvironment is researched the first thinglibrarians notice is the lack of agreementbetween different sources. Some will specifythe correct temperature is 68° F ± 2°, otherswill suggest a range of 68° to 72°, and so on.Similar problems are encountered whenrelative humidity, particulate, or gaseouspollution levels are examined.

Table 1 provides some generalrecommendations regarding environmentallevels for different types of common librarymaterials. It represents a compilation of avariety of sources, each of which should beconsulted for more specific information.Typically, humidity is more important thantemperature and should be controlled first.Further, fluctuations may be more damagingthan consistent levels, whatever they may be. Inaddition, these recommendations would bemade even more strict for especially valuablecollections or for what is often called a"conservation environment" typical of archivesand museums. For example, the NationalInformation Standards Organization (NISO) isworking on an environmental standard forbooks and paper.

To the temperature and humidity levelsof Table 1 should also be added acceptablefluctuations. For example, one researcher hassuggested that the relative humidity can vary± 3% diurnally and ± 6% seasonally, whiletemperature can vary ± 5° F.

Ventilation is especially important forlibraries since it ensures the health and well-being of staff and patrons (the primaryconcern of the American Society of Heating,Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers[ASHRAE] Standard 62-1989, Ventilation forAcceptable Indoor Air Quality and ASHRAE

39

Table 1.Preservation Environment

RELATIVE HUMIDITYPaper: 40% - 50%Film: 30% - 40%

Leather: 50% - 55%Vellum: 40% - 45%

TEMPERATUREPaper: 65° - 70° FFilm: 55° - 65° F

Leather: little researchVellum: little research

PARTICULATE FILTRATIONMinimum level for allmaterials is a filter to removeat least 50% of all particle,down to 0.5 microns (95%ASH RAE Dust Spot Efficiencyis preferred).

MAXIMUM LEVELS OF GASEOUSPOLLUTION

Sulfur Dioxide: 1 to 10 pg/m3or 0.38 to 3.8 ppbOxides of Nitrogen: 5 to 10pg/m3 or 2.5 to 5.0 ppbOzone: 2 to 25 pg/m3 or 1.0 to12.8 ppb

Adapted from William P. Lull and Paul N.Banks, Conservation Environment Guidelines for Librariesand Archives; Southeastern Library Network,Environmental Specifications for the Storage of Libraryand Archival Material; Garry Thomson, The MuseumEnvironment. A conservation environment may be evenmore strict.

IAQ 89, "The Human Equation: Health andComfort). Proper ventilation also helps tominimize the potential for mold outbreaks byproviding adequate passage of the air throughhigh efficiency filters and maintaining airmovement. Pockets of stagnant air in a libraryare a sure invitation for mold problems andshould be carefully avoided by the mechanicalengineer.

In the absence of adequate filtration,

duct work can become clogged. These debrisz,,re not only potentially damaging tocollections, but may also present unacceptablehealth risks to staff and patrons. Return-airducts are often worse than supply ducts. Ductscan be visually inspected, using inspectionports, or through the use of a borescopeinserted into drilled holes. Cleaning can beaccomplished by commercial firms usingrotary brushes and vacuuming. Typicallybiocide treatments should only be undertakenin those areas of public use.

The concerns associated withformaldehyde and similar indoor constructionand building material pollutants has beendiscussed in the section on The LibraryInterior. Beyond those pollutants, the libraryshould ensure that it closely regulates theability of staff and patrons to smoke. Not onlyis this practice a fire hazard and linked tohealth risks, but it also serves to introduce avariety of damaging particles into the libraryairstream, most of which typical HVACsystems cannot readily remove.

Recently companies have developedvarious techniques to monitor environmentaltobacco smoke. Tests such as that produced byAssay Technology in Palo Alto, Californiarespond to the alkaloids in tobacco smoke andprovide equivalence to the number ofcigarettes smoked. This test can be useful todetermine if staff smoking is affectingcollections.

What all this means to the publiclibrary is sometimes difficult to understand,but it may be interpreted as requiring:

maintaining a relativehumidity between 45% and55% throughout the year,allowing seasonal fluctuationsbetween the two extremes, butminimizing daily fluctuations,

maintaining temperaturebetween 65° and 75° Fthroughout the year, allowingseasonal fluctuations bet- teenthe two extremes, but

40

minimizing daily fluctuations,

designing filtration toremove at least 50% ofparticulates using theASH RAE Dust Spot EfficiencyTest,

designing gaseous filtrationto maintain preservationstandards throughout tht.facility, or using area filtrationas necessary, and

providing adequateventilation to avoid stagnantair pockets, "dead" zones at theends of ranges and corners ofstacks, and similar problemsthat are conducive to thegrowth of mold and mildew.

Unfortunately, HVAC or mechanicalengineers are most familiar with the AmericanSociety of Heating, Refrigerating, and AirConditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) guide tohuman comfort. Figure 6 demonstrates that thezone of human comfort is often very different.

A5N0AE COmFORT ZONE

COI.LECTsON CON000r

.1 MM=/0/411111KWAII

11151115

I.AMMIWAIMMI5

ANIPPAIPAINF 1111111111

.4121111Ma/.M11111111111MI.4021111X-021MINIIEVI

.41111211116011MWMIIIIIP'..M...0.131M1111E7

.....0.11111111111M11111111111111111111111111111

111111111111111M11111111111111111111M410 SO GO 70 110

06vikoL 21Ch0CI421.AC 1.21

00

0

0

SO

ao e

O

.00 !k

so a

6

f0.0

20.0

Figure 6. Zone of human comfort compared tothe "zone of collection comfort."

5o

0

Consequently, when architects and mechanicalengineers discuss "comfort" and "design" levels,they are almost always expressing concernsthat fail to include the needs of collections.

Major Components of an HVAC System

Without going into detail, a typicallarge HVAC system may contain a chiller, acooling tower, a boiler, and one or more airhandlers. The chiller provides the cooling,circulating cold water (or other liquid, such asammonia) to the various air handler coils. Airpassing over these coils is cooled, effectivelycooling the library. The cooling tower is usedto dissipate the heat collected by therefrigerants as they are used in the coils. Theboiler produces either steam or hot water. Bothcan be used for heating purposes (used in thecoils the same way as the chilled water) or fordehumidification (discussed below). The airhandlers consist of a fan, filtration, and thecoil. They are used to distribute the cleancooled or heated air.

Smaller libraries may use directrefrigeration units (also called DX or directexpansion units). These units may contain apackaged cooling system (including the coils,filter, and fan) and a condenser mountedoutside the building (serving the purpose of acooling tower in a larger system).

The decision of which to employ isusually determined by the size of theinstitution. Both can satisfy the preservationneeds of a library, if properly designed.Essential elements include:

The use of a constant airvolume system whichconstantly circulates air at fullvolume. Often the architect ormechanical engineer will use avariable air volume (VAV)system rather than a constantair volume system. The VAVsystem delivers cooled orheated air in proportion to theheating or cooling needed in aspecific zone. While thisapproach saves energy costs, it

41

does so by placing themaintenance of a stablehumidity at risk. Such systemsalso cannot properly filter theair or maintain sufficient airflow to help prevent stagnantair pockets. Within the pastfew years some buildings havebeen designed using amodification of VAV, calledterminal regulated air volume(or TRAV). Libraries shouldalso avoid the use of thissystem, for very similarreasons.

The limitation of outside airmakeup to that required by thelocal codes and ASHRAEStandard 62-1989. Librariesshould not use air economizers,which introduce large amountsof outside air for "free" coolingand heating. These systems,which are primarily responsiveto temperature needs, make itvirtually impossible tomaintain stable relativehumidities.

Design based on humidity,rather than temperature,control. It is preferable fortemperature to fluctuate,rather than RH, and allcontrols should be designedwith this specification in mind.

The use of electronic, ratherthan less sensitive, and reliable,pneumatic, controls in theoccupied spaces, not in thereturn ductwork. There are twotypes of electrical-basedrelative humidity sensors - -

bulk polymer and thin filmcapacitance. Both are veryaccurate (available in 3% and5% accuracy models) and havelong-term stability notobtainable with conventionalpneumatic controls.

The use of reheat coils fordehumidification of cooling airand clean steamhumidification. Reheat coilsallow the air to be super-cooled by the coils, driving offexcess moisture, and then to bereheated to the appropriatelevel. Dehumidification usingdesiccant drums is not only acostly alternative, but it ismore difficult to maintain andmay release a fine dust orpowder into the air stream.Clean steam dehumidificationis preferred over all otherhumidification techniques.

The use of prefilters(typically 70% ASHRAEWeight Arrestance) and finalhigh efficiency filters (at least50% ASHRAE Dust SpotEfficiency), with each bankmonitored by a manometer.This gauge indicates when theprefilters and final filters are"dirty" and need to be replacedbased on the pressure drop asair moves through the cloggedfilters. The use of electronicair cleaners should be avoidedsince they release ozone intothe air.

Constant operation of theHVAC system to ensureadequate environmentalcontrols and eliminate sharpspikes and excess fluctuationsof temperature and relativehumidity.

These essential design features will help ensurethat the library system is capable of achievingand maintaining a preservation qualityenvironment.

Libraries should also be very cautiousin the use of ducts with internal insulation.The air flow through these ducts can entrapthe fiberglass particles, distributing them

42

throughout the building. If in insulationmust be used, this internal insulation should becoated with an inert substance for isolation.When duct work is not insulated, the libraryshould require the use of duct silencers toprevent the transmission of equipment noise.

Recently two additional features havebecome available to libraries -- energymanagement systems (EMS) and direct digitalcontrols (DDC). A computerized energymanagement system has the potential ofreducing energy costs by 15% to 40% and canbe productive in buildings as small as 10,000 to50,000 square feet. The payback period inenergy savings can be as short as a year.Computerized energy management systemscontrol energy use through time programming,event programming, electrical load cycling andshedding, electrical load peak demandreduction, chiller optimization, and boilerplant optimization. In addition to these costreducing benefits, EMS can provide improvedlabor efficiency, reduced maintenance costs,and extended equipment life. The system canalso help monitor crucial areas of the library.

Additional energy savings are oftenpossible by combining EMS with direct digitalcontrols (DDC). Instead of traditional controlcomponents, such as thermostats and receivercontrollers, a DDC system uses microprocessorsthat perform the control logic functions. DDCcan be used to provide better management ofthe library environment, reduce the costs ofboth energy and labor, improve the quality ofthe environment, reduce or eliminatecalibration requirements, improve controlstrategies, and provide 24-hour monitoringwith computer printout capabilities. From acentral processing unit the library staff canmonitor and control temperature and humidity,reset areas, obtain a log of all conditions forreference or diagnostics, and much more.Further, additional equipment can be tied intothe DDC system, such as security, firedetection and suppression, and eveninglighting or lawn sprinklers.

Humidity Control

An article in Heating / Piping /Air

52

Conditioning suggested that even AVACsystems in commercial office buildings shouldbe designed to maintain humidity levelsbetween 40 and 60%1. While thisrecommendation may result in some additionalenergy costs, these can be minimized byspecial design approaches.

Often the most complex design featurefor libraries is to provide adequatehumidification and dehumidification. The goalshould be to design a system that not onlyfunctions properly, but which also functionseconomically. While there is a discussion ofrecent energy conservation research below, itshould be noted that it typically requires lessenergy to maintain a facility at 50% RH at ahigh temperature than at a low temperature.To maintain a space at a low temperature andhumidity will require more latent and sensiblecooling than maintaining the space at a highertemperature and the same relative humidity.

Consequently, it is essential that themechanical engineer explore a variety ofhumidity control systems to determine whichis most likely to provide the desired controlwith the lowest initial and operating cost.

There seems to be general agreementthat the most efficient and economicalhumidification for this region is provided bysmall zone steam injection humidifiers.Dehumidification is best obtained through areheat option making use of carefully designedextended surface or finned coils.

Energy Conservation

One of the most exhaustive studies onenergy conservation and a conservationenvironment is that conducted by the GettyConservation Institute 2. This document, whileintended for museums and other institutionsrequiring a conservation environment, shouldalso be reviewed by mechanical engineersworking frs- qbraries.

1 Hartman, Thomas "Humidity Control,"Heating / Piping /Air Conditioning (September1990): 111-114.

43

Essential to energy conservation is thedesign of the building envelope (discussed indetail in a previous section). A major issue isthe consistent use of thermal and vaporharriers. Library architects should ensureadequate insulation, use double or tripleglazing, avoid infiltration, prevent moisturemigration, and avoid the use of skylights andwindows. Involved in this design stage is theneed to ensure that the HVAC systems aredeveloped to minimize energy consumptionwhile ensuring the design set points areachieved.

The Getty study also examined avariety of set points for temperature andhumidity, finding that a set point of 70° F and50% RH resulted in the minimum energyconsumption of all conservation/preservationenvironments studied. Further, there is only avery slight reduction in energy consumption ashumidity tolerance of the system was allowedto increase (i.e., 50±2%, 50±5%, 50 ±7 %). Therewas a slightly greater savings by allowingseasonal fluctuations, although this saving wasalso relatively minor. The study found a 1%reduction in cooling cost by increasing thetemperature from 70° to 75° F in the summerand a 6% reduction in heating/humidificationenergy consumption by decreasing thetemperature from 70° to 65° F in the winter(maintaining the relative humidity at 50%throughout).

Of some use to planners is the findingthat in the Southeast the energy consumptionof cooling is only slightly greater than that ofheating and humidification, while theconsumption of fans/pumps and lighting areabout equal and onl, a third of either heatingor cooling.

Additional savings can be achievedthrough the use of appropriate windows withlow k- values (k- value indicates how muchthermal energy is transferred outside through

2 Ayres, J. Marx, J. Carlos Haiad, and HenryLau. Energy Conservation and Climate Controlin Museums. Marina del Rey, California: GettyConservation Institute, 1988.

window and the smaller the k - value, the lowerthe heat loss). While ordinary single glazingwindows have a k - value of 4.5 to 7, doublepane glazing has a k - value of 3.0 to 3.4, anddouble pane special insulation glazing with ametal oxide layer and rare gas filling has a k -value of 1.6 to 1.9.

In retrofitting HVAC systems it isappropriate to investigate the installation ofnew high efficiency chillers and natural gas-fired pulse-combustion steam boilers. TheGetty study also found that heat recoverychillers can provide significant savings in mildclimates, where much of the energy used forheating and humidification can be recoveredusing double bundle heat recovery chillers.Unfortunately, the Southeast is not a typicalmild climate area and this technique is notlikely to be effective.

Some engineers suggest investigatingthe use of heat wheels and heat exchangers tooptimize energy recovery and reduce the effectof outside air loads on the HVAC systems.They note that heat wheels, which reduce thesensible and latent heat of outside air areespecially useful in hot, humid areas of theSoutheast (sensible heat is the kind of heat thatincreases the temperature of the air; latent heatis the kind that is present in inr-eased moisturein the air).

Interim Improvements

As previously discussed, the first stepin all building renovations should be sealingthe structure - using caulk andweatherstripping to make the library weather-tight. This step alone will improve the physicalcondition of the building, reduce airinfiltration, reduce pest access, reduce theheating/cooling load, reduce air pollution, andreduce the particulates in the building. Makingthe building watertight (also previouslydiscussed) will reduce the sources of watervapor within the structure and maysignificantly reduce the relative humiditylevels.

Better cleaning, using damp mops andhigh efficiency vacuums, will reduce the

44

particulates in the library. Hard floors shouldbe damp mopped as frequently as possible andrequire waxing to prevent them from holdingdust. If carpets are used, they must bevacuumed at least weekly.

The library should segregate pollution -producing activities, such as smoking, copiers,laser printers, from the collections. Ideally aroom for photocopiers will be provided, witheach copier vented outside.

Only preservation quality materialsshould be used. Avoid materials which willoff -gas and cause additional damage.Emphasize the use of pH neutral, alkalinebuffered storage containers.

It may be possible to install a centraldrain-through evaporative pad humidifier onforced air systems. While not as effective orreliable as the in duct steam system, it isacceptable. Such systems, while requiring somemaintenance, can usually be installed relativelyinexpensively . Dehumidification can also beobtained as "add-ons" to the existing system.

Supplemental filtration, includinggaseous filtration, can be obtain by "add-ons"(such units are produced by a variety ofcompanies, including Purafilml, 1/800/222 -6367 and Farr Company, 1/800/777-5260).

Where only a single room, such as specialcollections, requires the additional protection,the cost for room filtration can be as low as$1000. It may be possible to install higherefficiency filters, with only minormodifications to existing fans.

Better filtration may be achievedthrough the replacement of standard 1 inchfiberglass filters with a 1 inch extendedsurface or pleated filter. These filters increasethe surface area of the filter through the use ofpleats, providing better filtering capability.While a 1 inch fiber glass filter may have anaverage ASHRAE Weight Arrestance of 70%,

a pleated filter may achieve a ASHRAE DustSpot Efficiency of 30%. Another option forimproved particulate filtration may be theelectrostatic air cleaning filters, which areelectronic and do not therefore generate ozone.

Libraries in urban areas with heavysmog should investigate the use of acombination fiberglass/potassiumpermanganate filter (such as thosemanufactured by Cameron-Yakima, Inc., P.O.Box 1554, Yakima, WA 93907, 509/452- 6605).This would provide some control over thegaseous pollutants.

As in all cases involving modificationsto the HVAC system, the library's architectand/or mechanical engineer should beconsulted for professional advice specific tothe institution and its existing equipment.

Alternative Designs

While the design features outlined hereare essential for the preservation of paper andother library materials it is regrettable publiclibraries often cannot afford all the measuresrecommended. In such a situation, the librarianshould maximize the protection given to thecollections within the limitations of the designand operating budget.

One approach is to design the library tominimize the daily and seasonal fluctuations oftemperature and humidity. This "design smart"idea would incorporate a variety of featuresdiscussed in the earlier section on TheBuilding Envelope, such as maximizing thethermal efficiency, building small withheavyweight materials, minimizing wastedspaces, ensuring au airtight envelope, and soforth. This approach will allow the size ofHVAC system to be reduced and result in acost savings. In addition, this approach willminimize the fluctuations resulting if theHVAC system must be shut down at night.

Another approach is to recognize thatcollections need a more stable environment thanstaff offices, open reading rooms, meetingfacilities, and similar areas of the building. By

45

reducing the size of the specially designedHVAC system to cover only the stacks, thecosts will be appreciably reduced. Of course,this also requires the stacks be separated fromthe remainder of the library, which may bedifficult with some designs and imi.lossible forsmaller, branch libraries.

The library may determine that damageto some parts of the collection resulting frominadequate environmental control is acceptable,while damage to another part of the collectionis unacceptable. The HVAC system would bedesigned with this division in mind, providingminimal controls for most areas and maximalcontrols for one or more small portions of thelibrary. An example of this approach is havingspecial collections, such as the local historyroom and microfilms, receive special HVACdesign treatment while the remainder of thefacility receives "routine" design work (equatedwith typical commercial installations makinguse of VAV and air economizer systems).

There are a variety of self-containedunits that can be cost-effectively installed toprovide a preservation quality environment fora single room. One such example is theLiebert mini-MATE Plus, which is capableof handling re-heat dehumidification, steamhumidification, and high efficiency particulatefiltration. Units are sized from 2 to 5 tons forair, water, glycol, and chilled waterapplications.

Before any such "compromises" aremade the library must be sure that both theyand the architect clearly understand the needsof a preservation environment and theconsequences of the compromises beingsuggested. It is much less expensive to designa system which "works" during this phase thanto adjust and tinker with a system for yearsafterwards, all the while suffering with moldsand inadequate operation.

FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN

Introduction

In the decade of the 1980s, 346 fireswere reported from libraries and museums. Ofthese, the leading cause was arson or"suspicious causes." The second most commoncause was the electrical distribution system.Taken together these account for over half ofthe reported fires and the majority of theproperty damage. In 1990 there were 8,500fires in educational facilities, with propertyloss valued at $136 million.

A fire is reported every 16 seconds inthe United States and every 100 minutes thereis one death attributable to fire. The losses tofire amount to $250 every second.

Although no institution can be madetotally safe from fire, the surest protectioninvolves the integration of seven features inthe planning:

use of fire- resistent or fire-proof construction,

compartmentalization of thelibrary and installation ofsecure fire walls and firedoors,

elimination of vertical draftconditions,

minimum use of combustiblematerials in interior finishingsand furnishings,

installation of protectivedevices, such as automatic firedoors, cutoff air circulationducts, and appropriate portablefire extinguishers.

installation of a good fire

46

detection and signallingsystem, and

installation of an automaticsprinkler system for the entirefacility.

This section provides a basicintroduction to the design of a fire safelibrary. For additional information, theSoutheastern Library Network (SOLINET)publication, Can'You Stand the Heat? A FireSafety Primer for Libraries, Archives, andMuseums should be consulted.

The library's architect will certainly befamiliar with both the fire codes of the localjurisdiction having authority, as well as theextensive recommendations and standards ofthe National Fire Protection Association.Consequently, it is not unreasonable to leavethe exact details of compliance up to thearchitect. The library should educate thearchitect on the importance of designing abuilding with the fire threat in mind,emphasizing the need to not simply complywith minimum code provisions, but to seek waysof expanding the level of fire protection.

Building for Fire Safety

Fire resistant construction is designedto allow the burnout of contents withoutstructural failure. While such design does notassure life safety, it does prevent structuralfailure of the building affecting the protectiveenclosure of exits. The goal is to assist in theevacuation of the building during fireconditions. In Type I or fire resistiveconstruction all of the structural members arenoncombustible and are fire-protected to strictrequirements. Type II or noncombustibleconstruction requires the use ofnoncombustible or limited combustible

structural materials. -All libraries shouldconform to one or the other classification.

The goal of compartmentalizing is toconfine a fire to the room or suite of roomswhere it originated or to retard its progressfrom one space to the next. This can beaccomplished by segregating spaces withhigher levels of fire hazard from those withlower levels. The segregation is achieved byusing a variety of design features, such as firewalls, fire doors, self - closing devices, and soforth. Compartmentalizing will typically limitthe size of the fire and the amount of damage.

The protection of vertical openings isequally significant for life safety and exitdesign. Vertical openings act as chimneys, withsmoke, hot gases, and flames spreading quicklyupward. Since the flames and smoke tend tospread upward, the most serious situationsoccur when the fire originates belowoccupants, for example in basements. Firefighting efficiency also decreases rapidly asthe fire spreads vertically, with multistoryfires difficult to control and virtuallyimpossible to extinguish by manual techniques.Libraries should avoid construction techniquessuch as open stairwells, curtain wallconstruction, poke-through assemblies, andvertical ductwork. Shafts for power,communication, computer and similar cablesthat must travel vertically in multifloorbuildings should be firestopped at each floor.

Libraries renovating an older structureshould pay particular attention to the elevators.Most elevator companies can upgrade an oldersystem to incorporate "elevator capture," or theautomatic recall of elevators to the main floorin the event of a fire. Such systems use smokesensing devices on each floor to prevent theelevator from stopping without the use of anover-ride key.

Few fires originate with interiorfinishes, although these finishes can becomeinvolved and can contribute extensively to thespread of the fire. Studies also have shown thatinterior finishes significantly contribute to thecondition called "flashover." Ideally all interiorfinishes in the library will be noncombustible or

47

will have an A classification (National FireProtection Association 101, Life Safety Code)and interior floor finishes will be of a Class Imaterial (National Fire Protection Association253, Standard Method of Test for CriticalRadiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Usinga Radiant Heat Energy Source). Interiorfinishes must also be carefully applied,according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Furnishings and decorations play anincreasingly important role in the loss of lifeby fire. Many materials do not so much burnas they emit vast quantities of dense smoke anddeadly gases. Yet, these materials are difficultto regulate since they are not actually built intothe structure. The librarian and architectshould both recognize the importance of fireresistant furnishings in the library. Furnituresuch as desks, chairs, and tables should beeither non-combustible or of fire-retardanttreated wood. All upholstery and plasticsshould be self-extinguishing. Draperies andcurtains should be flame proofed. Carpets (ifthey must be used in the library) should be ofcommercial grade low -flame spread rating.

There are a variety of protectivedevices the architect can suggest (or whichmay be required by local fire codes). Theseinclude such design features as outside ventswith fusible links with curtain boards to speedtheir opening. While there is still somecontroversy regarding the usefulness of ventsin sprinklered buildings, their use should beinvestigated by the architect. Ductwork for theHVAC system that penetrates fire walls orextends vertically should be firestopped withthe use of automatic fire dampers.

The National Fire ProtectionAssociation also recognizes that smoke controlcan be achieved through either a passiveapproach, usii.g compartmentalization, fanshut -down, and the use of fire and smokedampers or an active approach in which theHVAC system is designed to create differentialpressures to prevent smoke migration from thefire area and to exhaust the smoke to theoutside.

I

The two approaches should be carefully

evaluated, and the decision should be made onthe basis of the approach most likely topromote life safety and minimize damage tothe library materials. It may be that the librarydesign will be such that there is no need forsmoke control. One excellent discussion of thisissue is Michael Dillon's "The Other Risk inSmoke Control Design" in the July 1991 issueof the ASHRAE Journal.

If the library is incorporating a parkinggarage, fire protection should also be designedinto its construction. Some fire experts arereluctant to recommend a sprinkler system ingarages, arguing that while most car fires willburn out without spreading, the water from asprinkler system may carry pools of burninggasoline from car to car, making the fireworse. Regardless, all experts agree garagesshould have carefully designed detection andwarning systems coupled with good ventilation.

Fire Extinguishers

Most fires start out small and could beeasily extinguished or controlled if the properamount of the correct extinguishing agent wereapplied. Portable fire extinguishers are a firstline of defence against these small fires. But ifthey are to be effective they must:

be properly located and ingood working order, and

be the proper type for thefire.

While it is difficult to recommend onetype of extinguisher for all libraries, most willbe satisfactorily served by a stored pressuremultipurpose dry-chemical extinguisher. Suchextinguishers can be used on Class A:B:C firesincluding ordinary combustibles such as paperand wood, flammable liquids such as gasolineand greases, and fires in live electricalequipment. The only serious drawback to thistype of extinguisher is the chemical used iscorrosive and hardens as it cools.Consequently, clean up can be difficult. Inspite of this, the dry chemical extinguishersare simple to use, effective, and relatively

48

inexpensive.

The National Fire ProtectionAssociation Extinguisher Standard (NFPA 10,Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers)explains the distribution of extinguishers inconsiderable detail and will be very familiar tothe library's architect. In brief, if the facilityuses a 10A:60B:C extinguisher (such as theAnsule Sentry' Model SY-1014) themaximum travel distance to the extinguishershould be no more than 50 feet. It is alwaysbetter to have too many fire extinguishers,especially considering their very low initialand maintenance costs.

A novice operator using the cited10A:60B:C extinguisher will be able toextinguish a fire covering 60 square feet (theequivalent of an area measuring about 71 feetsquare). An experienced operator will be ableto extinguish a fire covering about 150 squarefeet. Weighing slightly over 17 pounds the unitcan be used by most adults without difficulty.

The cited extinguisher should bemounted no higher than 5 feet from the floorto the top of the extinguisher. No extinguishersshould be mounted closer than 4 inches off thefloor. This means that extinguishers used toprop open doors or which are placed in cornersdo not satisfy code requirements. Theextinguisher should not be obstructed andshould be in plain sight.

While it may be attractive to hide theextinguisher in cabinets which "blend-in" withthe library decor, this should never be allowedto detract from the ultimate use fulness of theextinguisher. In particular, locking cabinetswhere the potential user must either break apanel or engage an elaborate unlockingmechanism should be avoided if at all possible.Intended to be used in high vandalism areaswhere it is important that the opening of acabinet and discharge of an extinguisher canbe easily detected by visual inspections, theselocking cabinets are usually not necessary in alibrary. There are a variety of non-lockingcabinets made which provide high visibilityprotection to the extinguishers (Figure 7).Recessed or semirecessed cabinets are better

5 3

Figure 7. Semi-recessed fire extinguishercabinet.

maintenance choices than surface mountedcabinets although the latter are easier to use inretrofits. The various extinguishermanufacturers also produce bracketsspecifically designed to be used whereextinguishers may be accidently dislodged, asan alternative to cabinets. One manufacturer,STI, is also producing a fire extinguisheralarm, which sounds when the extinguisher isremoved from its holder. The alarm is batteryoperated and does not interfere with thenormal use of the equipment. This devicemight be appropriate for areas with a moderaterisk of vandalism.

The library may also wish to install alimited number of Ha lon 1211 extinguishers.Halon 1211 (bromochloroidifluoromethane) isa "clean" agent, leaving no residue, beingvirtually noncorrosive and nonabrasive. It iswell suited for computers and valuablecollections. This compound, as with otherfluorocarbons, is damaging to the environmentand its use is being restricted. Regardless, it isnot inappropriate for libraries to install theseextinguishers to protect especially valuablematerials or collections. They should not,

49

however, be used routinely throughout thelibrary (both because of cost andenvironmental consequences). The libraryshould realize that the production of variousHalon compounds is being reduced, althoughnew replacements which are much lessdamaging to the environment are already beingdeveloped.

An appropriate Halon extinguisher isthe Ansul Sentry Model SY-1441, rated at2A:40B:C and weighing just under 22 pounds.Smaller Halon extinguishers are often not ratedfor use of combustible material (Class A) fires.

Libraries should avoid the use ofsmaller, inexpensive plastic extinguishers.These models may, or may not, be reliable.Few can be refilled after use. They aredesigned for the homeowner who is unwillingor unable to purchase a more reliable modeland to undertake the maintenance associatedwith fire extinguishers. Because of the risk,and the potential loss, libraries should use onlythe best fire protection equipment.

Fire Hoses

Many libraries, most notably those inmultistory structures, have installed standpipeand hose systems for building occupants to useuntil the fire department arrives. Since thesesystems are intended for use by untrainedindividuals they are equipped with inchhoses. Unless required by the local jurisdictionhaving authority, there is little point ininstalling this equipment. The novice use of afire hose, even one that is putting out "only"100 gallons of water a minute at a pressure of90 psi, can often do more damage than good. Itcan also prove dangerous to use in unskilledhands. The library would be better served bydevoting the funding necessary for thisequipment into a sprinkler system (discussedbelow).

Fire Detection Equipment

There are essentially three types of firedetectors:

BEST COPY AVAILABLE

flame detector, which

responds to the flame stage ofa fire,

heat detector, whichresponds to the heat generatedat the flame stage of a fire, and

smoke detector, whichresponds to the particles ofcombustion early in the fire.

The flame and heat detectors haverather specialized uses and should not be theprimary detection device in a library. Theflame detector is very fast, sensing flameswithin millisecond, but its use is limited tocircumstances in which the fire is not likely tosmolder or produce combustion products priorto the actual fire. It would be appropriate forspaces where flammable liquids are stored, forexample the garage where the bookmobile isparked, especially if there is an indoor gaspump. The heat detector sets off an alarmwhen the heat reaches a specific, preset level.While they are the least expensive detectorsavailable, they are also the least sensitive andtypically provide the alarm after the fire hasreached major proportions. They are bestsuited to duct work where conventionaldetectors are likely to create false alarms.

More appropriate for a library settingare smoke detectors, which may be eitherionization detectors or photoelectric detectors.Generally, the ionization detector will providea faster response to open flaming fires thatproduce a large quantity of small smokeparticles. Photoelectric detectors providesomewhat better response to smoldering fires.The ideal solution is to use a detector thatcombines the two types in one unit. Butregardless of the specific type selected, smokedetectors are the preferred detection device inthe library settir-.

All detection systems will beincorporated into a signalling system. Whilethere are five basic types (local, auxiliary,remote, proprietary, and central station), thelibrary planner will typically need to beconcerned with only general parameters orrequirements.

50

A local alarm system provides notice ofthe fire condition only to the buildingoccupants. Its primary function is life safety,alerting the occupants they should evacuate thebuilding. Presumably, the staff will also callthe fire department. This system is effectiveonly if the building is occupied, otherwise it islikely that the alarm will go unnoticed.

The planner should therefore ensurethat the signalling system will alert the firedepartment, either automatically or throughsome intermediate party such as a monitoringsecurity company. The system should also beattached to an annunciator panel, which willallow the fire department to quickly identifywhere the alarm initiated.

Automatic Sprinkler Systems

The best possible fire control systemfor libraries is the automatic sprinkler.Sprinklers provide much faster response to fireconditions than even a local fire department,and a sprinkler system is likely to control orextinguish a fire using less water than a typicalfire department response once the fire hasgained momentum. Sprinklers can save bothlives and reduce property losses in the event ofa fire. In fact, one study suggests a sprinklersystem can reduce property losses by nearly$8000 in the event of a library fire. Inaddition, sprinkler systems installed incommercial property can pay for themselves inas little as five years through reducedinsurance premiums.

There are still a few who fear the waterdamage associated with the discharge ofsprinklers. Yet, a typical sprinkler headreleases between 15 and 56 gallons of water aminute, compared to the 250 to 350 gallons ofwater a minute released by a single 2i inch firedepartment hose. And 70% of all fires arecontrolled by four or fewer sprinklers - -

releasing less than 170 gallons of water aminute. It is clear that sprinklers will cause lesswater damage than a fire department response.

Some also believe that sprinklers will"accidently" discharge, without warning, and

without any fire condition. The odds of asprinkler activating because of a defect is lessthan one in one million. The testing proceduresused on sprinkler heads far exceed the normalabuse they receive in a library. Whendefective, sprinklers tend to leak or drip, notdischarge.

There are numerous good reasons toinclude a sprinkler system in the library designand construction. There are no good reasons toleave out a sprinkler system.

There are two basic types of sprinklersystems suitable for libraries:

wet pipe systems, and

preaction systems.

In a wet pipe system there is a pipingnetwork containing water at all times. When asprinkler head is activated, water isimmediately released on the fire. This systemis the more simple, and it quickly releaseswater on the fire source.

A preaction system is more complex,and hence more costly, although it doesprovide the library with an additional degreeof protection. In this system all of the pipes arepressurized with air or nitrogen. The preactionvalve is activated by an independent firedetection system such as the library's smokedetectors. The opened preaction valve allowsthe piping to fill with water, but this water isnot released until the fire actually fuses one ormore of the sprinkler heads. This system usesdry pipes until there is a possible fire threat, atwhich time the air or nitrogen is released andthe pipes fill with water. The delay in actualwater discharge allows the staff or firedepartment time to locate the fire source andpossibly extinguish it. The preaction systemalso avoids the release of water should asprinkler head be dislodged through vandalismsince no other detection devices wereactivated.

There are also a variety of sprinklerhead designs. The typical sprinkler head(Figure 8) is either closed, or when the heat

51

DEFLECTOR (UPRIGHT)

FRAMELEVERSLINKS

SOLDER

-CAP

Figure 8. Typical sprinkler head 'q closed andopen positions (adapted from WayneG. Carson and Richard L. Klinker,Fire Protection Systems, 1986,National Fire Protection Assoc.)

from a fire fuses the head it opens, releasingwater. Recently there have been severalcycling sprinkler heads introduced on themarket. One is the Flow Controlml by CentralSprinkler Corporation. This device ismanufactured to open under fire conditions,releasing water, and then to close when thetemperature is reduced below a certain point.Should the fire flare back up, the sprinklerhead will again open, applying more water.

In theory this is a tremendousadvantage for libraries, since it limits theamount of water placed on the fire and thecollections. Some fire experts have expressedconcerns that this cycling effect may actuallyincrease the risk, allowing the fire to flare uprepeatedly, each time involving new materialsand emitting more smoke. At the present timethis is an unsettled issue and librarians shoulddiscuss this concern with their architect and

61

fire engineer.

Total Flooding Systems

Some institutions inquire about thepossible use of a total flooding agent such asHalon 1301 (bromotrifluoromethane). Thesesystems require that collections be located inrelatively small, very tightly sealed rooms.Under fire conditions, the agent is released,flooding the room. The fire is extinguished, orcontrolled, through its exposure to an adequateconcentration of the extinguishing agent for asufficient period of time.

As previously discussed, Halon is anenvironmental threat and its use is being

52

increasingly regulated. The design andconstruction of a suitable room is complex, andthe system is relatively expensive. It is alsoessential that personnel in the room leaveimmediately during an alarm condition.

The best evaluation of total floodingHalon systems is that there are appropriateuses. Collections of very high intrinsic ormonetary value might best be protected usingHalon. Master microfilm negatives could bewell protected with this system. But for mostroutine library materials Halon is probably notwarranted. The careful design and installationof a traditional fire detection and suppressionsystem should be adequate.

EC)

BUILDING FOR PEST CONTROL

The Basics of Library Integrated PestManagement

The typical library tends to handle itspest control problems in one of three ways: theproblem will be ignored until it reaches crisisproportions, a staff member will be appointed"to handle the situation," or the problem willbe turned over to a commercial pest controlcompany and toxic pesticides will be applied.Each of these options exhibits some basicmisunderstandings of how pests can beeffectively and safely controlled. The "donothing" approach will surely lead to thedamage or destruction of the collection. Pestsdo not "take care of themselves"; they continueto spread and eat. Turning the situation over toa staff member, usually overworkedmaintenance personnel with little or noexperience in pest control, can result in avariety of problems. Either little or nothingwill be done, or a variety of "over the counter"pesticides will be used indiscriminately. Use ofa commercial pest control firm may, or maynot, get rid of the offending pests, but usuallythe library will have no idea what pesticideswere used; how those pesticides will affectpatrons, staff, and collections; where thepesticides were used; or how long thetreatment will last.

There is a fourth option integratedpest management.

Integrated pest management (IPM) isnot new to the pest control industry, but itsapplication to structural pests (and particularlyto library settings) is not yet as common as itdeserves to be. An IPM approach to pestcontrol minimizes (and in some instances mayactually eliminate) the use of chemicals, intheir place emphasizing cultural, mechanical,and biological controls.

There are four major components to a

53

successful IPM program:

monitoring pest populations,

assessing the acceptable pestpopulation and associateddamage,

identifying control methods,and

evaluating the success of theprocess.

IPM programs, unlike most conventionaltreatments, are not static, but. should bedesigned for constant adjustment andrefinement. The primary advantages are thatstable, long -term control of most pestpopulations is possible and the use ofchemicals is minimized. This last feature isoften the first to be noticed - wherepreviously an institution would have a pestcontrol firm come in monthly and spray"something," with IPM the treatments, ifnecessary at all, will perhaps be only everythree to six months.

There is a down side to IPM. Thisapproach requires a greater commitment fromthe library. No longer are pest problems simplyturned over to a pest control firm. The librarymust be an active participant in the process.

The first step in an active IPM programis monitoring, which takes a variety of forms.One of the more significant is the use of stickytraps, checked at least weekly to determine thepresence of pests, their identity, their location,their life stage, and their numbers. Thenumber of traps used and their placement areessential to effective monitoring, but no moreso than the dedication to consistently examinethe traps for signs of pest activity. In addition

Bookbindings

Books and Paper

Leather and Parchment

Other Pests

Table 2.Common Pests of Books

Deathwatch beetle, Xestobium rufovillosumanobiid bettles (many varieties)Book lice, Liposcelis spp. (feed on molds)

termites (all varieties)Drugstore beetle, Stegobium paniceumSilverfish, Ctenolepisma spp.Firebrat, Thermobia domestuicaGolden spider beetle, Niptus hololeucusMexican book beetle, Catorama herbariumanobiid beetles (many varieties)Brownbanded cockroach, Supella longipalpa

cockroaches (all varieties)carpet bettles (many varieties)dermestids (many varieties)

mice, Mus musculusrats, Rattus spp.birds, particularly pigeons, sparrows, blackbirds,

grackles, and starlingsvariety of bird mites (from bird nests)fleas, Ctenocephalides spp.bats, many varieties

to traps, monitoring will include theexamination of staff and public areas for signsof insect or pest activity (such as frass,droppings, eggs) and the examination of thecollections for signs of damage. Constantmonitoring of environmental conditions(discussed in another section) will alert you topotential problems. Finally, housekeeping mustbe constantly monitored.

The second step is to determine whatlevel of insect activity will cause theimplementation of control mechanisms. Forexample, in a paper collection a singlecockroach or silverfish may warrant attention,while one field cricket may not. These areinstitutional decisions which need to be based

54

on a knowledge of pest behavior, the nature ofthe collections, and the level of "acceptable"damage.

The third step involves treatment. Oneof the most effective approaches is to ensurethat pests do not achieve a toehold in yourinstitution. There are two fundamental goals:

build them out (eliminateeasy access), and

starve them out (deny themfood sources).

Both cultural and mechanical approaches areessential in making an IPM program work.

Cultural modifications include such concernsas thorough cleaning (eliminate food anddrink), temperature and humidity control (lowtemperature and humidity deter pests),grounds maintenance (eliminate flowers andorganic mulch next to the library), and lighting(replace ordinary exterior lights with highpressure sodium lights), all of which can makelife in and around a library less inviting topests. Mechanical modifications will be dealtwith in this chapter at greater length.

The final step in the IPM plan iscontinued surveillance to determine populationlevel reductions and the need for additionaltreatment. If chemical treatments arenecessary, the IPM program will analyzeavailable pesticides and determine appropriatetypes, levels of application, and specific needs.

When restricted use pesticides must beused it is essential that the library be part ofthe planning process. First, ask your applicatorwhat chemicals are being used and why thesematerials were selected. Second, obtain fromyour applicator copies of the label and theappropriate material safety data sheet (MSDS)- - you have a right to obtain both. Third, bepresent during each application - walking theapplicator throughout your library. Andfourth, require that you be given writtendocumentation of each application, (a sampleform is found as Appendix III). f.11 of thesesteps will help make your library a safer,healthier environment.

IPM and Building Programs

One goal of IPM is to "build pests out."This process begins with the site work andprogresses throughout construction.

Site Grading and Termiticide Treatments

Perhaps the first opportunity thelibrary and architect have to control a pestproblem is during site work. Keep the site areaclean of scrap wood and other organicmaterials that can support subterraneantermites. Be sure no organic materials areincorporated into the building fill.

55

All new construction should have whatis called a termite pre-treatment. For slabconstruction two treatment episodes will beneeded. The first will be after footings havebeen poured (except for monolithic slabs,discussed below) and the concrete block orfooting is laid, but not capped. Typicallytermiticide will be applied at the rate of 1gallon per 10 square feet of slab area. If thearea is to be covered with gravel or othercoarse aggregate, usually 1i gallons per 10square feet will be applied. Foundations andother critical areas (such as piers, plumbingand utility services, and expansion joints) areoften the entry point for termites; these areaswill be treated a rate of 4 gallons per 10 linearfeet. Uncapped masonry wall voids will betreated at the rate of 2 gallons of termiticidesolution per 10 linear feet. If the voids havealready been sealed (and they should have beenleft open for this treatment), the applicatorwill have to drill and inject termiticide. Afterthe final grading is complete, the pest controlapplicator should return to the library site andtreat the exterior of the foundation withtrenching or rodding techniques. If trenched,termiticide will be applied at a rate of 4gallons per 10 linear feet. If rodding, the holesshould be spaced no more than 12 inches apartto create a continuous barrier around thestructure. Rod holes should not extend belowthe top of the footing.

In monolithic slab constructiontreatment is basically the same, except that theinitial treatment is performed after the formsare in place, but before the concrete has beenpoured and no moisture barrier or wire hasbeen laid. The exterior perimeter will betreated when the forms have been removedand the final grading is complete.

Effective termite pre- treatments areessential to the safety of the building, itsfurnishings, and the library collection. Whileyour local jurisdiction may require a bidprocess for this work, you should insure thatall bids are based on adequate performanceand appropriate dilution/application rates ofthe pesticide. There are documented cases inwhich the low bid was less than the cost of thetermiticide to treat the building, giving rise to

6

the suspicion that an inadequate job wasperformed.

Good Design and Construction Practices

*Building pests out" requires gooddesign and construction practices - - this meansthat your architect, general contractor, and jobforeman clearly understand what you expect.It also requires attention to detail and liberaluse of the punch list (discussed in theconcluding section).

Exterior doors - make sure all exteriordoors use self - closing devises to limit the timethey are open. Fit gaskets and sweeps on doorsto minimize insect entry through crevices(remember that an opening as small as inchwill allow a mouse to gain entry to yourlibrary).

Windows - make sure all windows closetightly. Any windows that will be openablemust be fitted with a minimum of 20 meshscreen (most screen is 16 mesh and will allowaccess by carpet betties). All window openingsmust be tightly caulked.

Utilities all openings for utilities(water, gas, electricity) must be tightly caulkedor otherwise sealed. This includes entrancesfrom the exterior and all interior penetrations(for example in restrooms).

Air Intake Vents - all intake vents forHVAC air handlers or other vents must bescreened.

Air Conditioner penetrations these,and any other penetrations of the exterior wall,provide an entry point for a wide variety ofpests. They should be carefully sealed.

Eaves and Ledges - these areas shouldbe eliminated from designs to exclude perchingand nesting areas for birds. If eaves and ledgesare included in the building design, theyshould be screened or protected to deter birds.

Exterior walls - all cracks and crevicesshould be sealed to prevent insect access. Weepholes and wall vents should be screened.

56

Interior walls - wall cracks andcrevices, particularly around baseboards,should be sealed with caulk to deny egg layingor pupation sites to insects.

Interior pipe chases - a variety of waterpipes, electrical conduits, and duct work willtypically span the structure in all directions,often penetrating walls. These pipe chases arehighways for insect and rodent movement,especially when they are hidden by droppedceilings. All such penetrations must becaulked. If the penetration is through a firewall, the caulk used must be rated for thisapplication.

Interior wall voids - these areas shouldbe treated, during construction, with a longlasting silica aerogel (one example, which alsocontains pyrethrin, is Drione by FairfieldAmerican Corporation). This pesticide willcontrol a variety of library pests, such ascockroaches and silverfish, for very longperiods of time and, being placed in a wallvoid, will keep the pesticide away frompatrons and staff. It is also possible to installsmall plastic tubes in the walls to allowperiodic re- treatments of these voids onceconstruction is complete (one example is theInsiderTm).

High moisture areas - too often thepotential for rot (and pest problems associatedwith the accompanying moisture and mold) isignored by builders. Wood in areas with a highpotential for rot (around plumbing, in outdoorcontact with concrete, and so forth) should betreated for rot and decay resistance.

Water control gutters, downspouts,scuppers (as appropriate) should be operableand channel water at least 10 feet away fromthe library (preferably into a storm waterdrain). Water should never be allowed tocollect next to the foundation. Porches, loadingdocks, entranceways should always be slopedaway from the structure to promote adequatedrainage. "Flat" roofs should have some fall toavoid water pooling on the surface.

Live Plants - no live plants should beused within the library. For additional

information on plants, see the section on in favor of hard, inorganicLandscaping.

Environmental Controls

Insects typically like warm, moistenvironments. Unfortunately, that warm, moistenvironment is what too many libraries offerpests through inadequate venti la ion,dehumidification, and cooling. Suchcompromises may not only damage thecollection directly, but lead to an increase inpests that can cause additional damage.

For example, studies have shown booklice feed off the mold that grows on thestarchy paper and bindings of books. They areconsequently a direct indicator of highhumidity levels. Book lice are controlled atrelative humidity levels of 50% or less and willbe killed by sustained relative humidity levelsof 30%. Cockroaches and silverfish are equallysusceptible to relative humidity changes.

Housekeeping

A variety of pests, especially a largevariety of carpet betties, flourish in the dustand debris that collect in floor cracks, alongbaseboards, and in carpets. Cockroaches cansurvive very well eating the trash that collectsin carpets and other small voids. Mold seems tostart first on the headcaps of books, where finedust typically settles and is left undisturbed bypatrons and staff.

Anything that promotes better, morethorough housekeeping in libraries will alsopromote a more pest-free environment. Forexample:

eliminate "dust catchers" suchas sills and ledges,

use rounded corners tominimize dust,

use rounded joints betweenfloors and walls to facilitatecleaning,

minimize the use of carpet,

57

flooring such as tile.

If janitorial equipment is beingincluded in the specifications for the newlibrary, be sure that adequate vacuum cleaningequipment is provided, especially if large areasof carpet are included in the design. An idealvacuum cleaner will:

have a strong enough motorto provide excellent cleaningpower,

have a HEPA filter to retain99+% of particles down to 0.3microns, and

be suitable for both wet anddry applications in the library.

Food Services

Since the presence of food attracts avariety of insect pests, the ideal approach is toeliminate food from all library settings. This,of course, may not always be possible. If foodis allowed in the building there are a fewtechniques that can be used tk, minimize theproblem:

Minimize the area where food isallowed. Restrict food to a staff kitchen orlounge. Do not allow food at desks, inprocessing areas, or elsewhere in the facility.

Separate collections and food. Oncefood has been limited to one area, design thelibrary so that this one room is isolated fromcollections and other areas. This can be doneby centralizing the lounge or kitchen andkeeping it on an outside wall, perhaps in onecorner of the library. Then build walls andinstall doors that will keep pests in this onearea. Provide direct access outside, so thatgarbage can be taken directly to the dumpsterand not hauled through the rest of the facility.

Ensure low maintenance. Use tile orother hard flooring, not carpets, where therewill be food. Emphasize the use of roundedcorners and easy to clean counter tops, tables,

and furnishings. Use built-in, rather thanfree-standing, appliances to reduce cracks andcrevices that trap food. Install a smalldishwasher to encourage staff cleanliness.

Trash Disposal

The dumpster for the library should besituated away from the building to reduce pest

58

access to the building. The library should alsoensure that the drain plug for the dumpster isinstalled; this will reduce the possibility thatrodents will gain access to the dumpster.

U

SECURITY

Introduction

Library security has essentially twogoals: (1) protection of the collection and (2)protection of staff and patrons. One does not,of necessity, follow from the other (forexample, preventing the theft of collectionswill not pre vent the robbery or mugging ofpatrons and vice versa). The major goal of thisdiscussion is related to the security of thecollections, although general comments will beoffered concerning other security issues aswell.

An authoritative guide to securityissues is the publication, Suggested Guidelinesin Museum Security, adopted by the AmericanSociety for Industrial Security StandingCommittee on Museum, Library and ArchiveSecurity. While many librarians may find theguidelines overly rigorous (it is, admittedly,intended for museums), the document providesa threshold against which security concerns canbe compared. While not as detailed, the Societyof American Archivists' Archives andManuscripts: Security by Timothy Walch maybe more familiar to librarians. Architectsworking with libraries should be familiar withthe provisions of both documents and shouldbe able to discuss with their clients theapplicability of various features.

These discussions will not cover firesecurity concerns, found detailed in a previoussection.

Foreseeability of Crime

Many security consultants recommendthat an institution perform a risk assessment.Part of this process is judging the likelihoodthat your library will be a victim of crime,whether that means theft of collections, assaultof patrons or staff, or vandalism to the structure.

59

A first step is to assemble informationon known losses of library material. This mightinclude information on the known losses bymonth (to determine if there are more losses,for example, when school is in session), lossesby material (are particular books and journalsmore vulnerable to theft, or more attractiv:- totheft), and losses by range (are most lossescoming from areas with little or no security).This information, if possible, should alsoinclude mutilation of collections.

A second step is to gather crimeinformation. The police department should beasked to supply information on stranger -to-stranger crimes against persons within one -mile of the library. The library should alsoevaluate the instance of minor crimes on thepremises over the past two years, as anindicator of any problem maintaining order.

Security of Collections

Typically librarians think of collectionsecurity in terms of various systems to deterunauthorized removal of books. One suchsystem is the Tattle-Tape by 3M (excellentdiscussions of many of the systems availablewill be found in Library Technology Reports).Both by -pass and full circulation systems areavailable and fairly reliable (although as withany security system, magnetic strips can bedefeated by the determined patron). Thepreservation concern with such systems is thepotential damage to the books by inserting themagnetic strip triggers and the adhesive used'.Certainly this approach is unacceptable forrare books and special collections. The library'schief concern is certainly the cost of the

I Harris, Carolyn. "The PreservationConsiderations in Electronic Security Systems,"Library and Archival Security 11(1):35-44(1991).

equipment and the staff time required to armall of collection.

Coupled with magnetic strips there isusually some need to control movementthrough emergency exit doors required by theLife Safety Code (National Fire ProtectionAssociation 101). These doors are typicallylocked from the outside, but are free openingfrom the inside. To deter unauthorized usethey can be equipped with local alarms thatsound when the door is used. In largerinstitutions, where the staff is unlikely to hearthe alarm, it can be wired to a central console,perhaps located at the circulation desk.

Internal arrangements can also be usedto deter theft. Circulation, reference, andsimilar staff areas should be located anddesigned to allow the staff maximum visibilityof the patrons and collections. Floor plansshould be developed to ensure clear sight linesare maintained and not blocked by last minuteadditions or changes. Once provided by thearchitect, the success of this system is in thehands of the staff, who must be constantlyattentive to patrons and their activities.

Theft in special collection areas (suchas local history rooms) can be reduced bybanning personal possessions, such as pocketbooks, brief cases, umbrellas, and bulky coats.For this approach to be successful the librarymust plan to provide free security lockers priorto entering the main library area. There mustbe adequate signage to enforce the rules andthe staff must ensure that all patrons adhere tothe posted rules.

Internal arrangements and banningpersonal possessions are likely most effectivein special collections where there are fewervitrons and more strict provisions can be easilyestablished. The key to the security system isthe diligence of the staff rather than thesophistication of the equipment.

Some institutions and consultants haverecommended the use of closed- circuittelevision (CCTV) to monitor large librariesand stacks. This is a rather expensive optionand most institutions have found that more

60

cameras were required for complete coveragethan originally thought. With multiple cameras,there must also be multiple monitors or anautomatic switching system. The concept ofCCTV, unless intended as an expensivepsychological deterrent, requires staff time bedevoted to monitoring the various screens - - athankless and boring task. CCTV systemsultimately fail not because of the hardware,but because of the human element.

Some mutilation and theft of books iscaused by patrons being unable to find afunctioning copier. The library can reduce thisrisk by ensuring the availability of adequate,affordable copiers. As discussed elsewhere,copiers produce high levels of ozone andshould be vented to the outside.

There are c range of inexpensivepsychological deterrents that can be used,including convex mi:rors and silvered (one-way) windows between staff areas and publicareas. The goal is to create doubt in the mindof the potential thief.

Intrusion Security System

Often called a "burglar alarm,"electronic security systems can be assophisticated as necessary, although suchsystems also carry a high price. There are awide variety of systems available and thelibrary should discuss options with thearchitect. A synopsis of common systemcomponents is offered here.

It seems that in today's society, strictlylocal alarms, which sound only at theinstitution and require that someone hear thealarm and call the police, provide very littleprotection and are not worth the investment.Libraries should have a system that ismonitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Anannunciator panel can be located at the library,as well as at the commercial central station.

All exterior doors should have magneticswitches, preferably with concealed, rather thansurface mounted, contacts. These indicate whenthere is an unauthorized opening of any dooron the premises. If the institution has windows

7u

that can be opened (not a good idea because ofpest control and HVAC concerns), they tooshould have magnetic switches that willindicate when a window is opened. All glassaccess points (doors and windows) should havea glass-break detecting device such as avibration or shock sensor..!:. alternative is aninterior volumetric motion detection system tosense intrusion.

Depending on the size of theinstitution, it may be necessary to use motiondetectors to sense movement of people throughthe library and to detect individuals stayingbehind after closing hours. These detectorsmay include ultrasonic, passive infrared, ormicrowave systems. While dated, the text,Museum, Archives, and Library Security, editedby Lawrence J. Fennelly, will provideadditional information on the various systems,how they should be designed, and appropriateinstallation.

While libraries are not museums, thereare occasionally special exhibits. Depending onthe value of items to be exhibited, thereplaceability of the items, the sensitivity ofthe exhibits to controversy, the ease of theexhibited item's sale, or vulnerability todamage or vandalism, it may be important toinclude additional security systems specificallydesigned to protect exhibits.

All libraries should use an alarmsystem that includes panic buttons for staff use.These can be used if staff observes theft ofcollections, if a visitor becomes unruly, or ifthere is some other emergency. Libraries donot typically handle large amounts of cash, andthis is fortunate. A study conducted for theAmerican Society of Industrial Security foundthat 65% of potential robbers are interested ina target if they believe the register contains$100. This drops to less than 25% at $50, andat $30 only 5% of the potential robbers remaininterested. Local circumstances should guidethe installation of panic buttons at cashregisters.

A duress signal capability isrecommended for libraries. It can beaccomplished using a keypad with a

61

confidential, silent duress code.

Whenever possible alarm systemsshould be hard wired and fully supervisedagainst tampering. They should be capable ofoperating for at least 24 hours in the event ofa power failure. Electronic communicationbetween the library and the monitoring facilityshould comply with Underwriters LaboratoriesStandard 1610, Central Station Burglar AlarmUnits and should meet the equipment listingrequirements for a Grade AA level ofprotection service against compromise.

Even the best alarm system can bedefeated by human error. All alarms,regardless of frequency or "suspected" cause,must be investigated by a person with securitytraining. Typically this means that either aprivate security company or the local policeshould always respond when an alarm isreceived from the library.

Door Locks and Key Control

The first lines of defense at everylibrary are the door locks. While the presenceof the finest locks will not negate therequirements for more sophisticated securitysystems, they will provide considerablesecurity at a very modest cost.

All exterior doors, and interior floors tosensitive areas (audio-visual storage, vaults,etc.), should have good quality, pick resistentdead bolt locks. A proprietary or regionallyproprietary keyway will be used wheneverpossible. At a minimum the selected locks willuse key blanks which are not available throughlocal locksmiths, hardware stores, or othersuppliers (this is an essential departure fromthe local supplier rule followed by mostlibraries for economic reasons). Room numbersand buildings should never be stamped on keys.Only coded information should be used toidentify keys.

One new lock is the DiskLockTm byABLOY Security Locks (5603 Howard Street,Niles, Illinois 60648). This pick resistent lockuses a key which can be copied only byauthorized locksmiths, and then only with a

Tl

personal key code number.

Coupled with au adequate lock is theneed to ensure that doors are securely mountedand that hinge pins, if exposed on the exterior,are not removable.

These first lines of defense are oftencompromised by the absence of any keycontrol policy. All libraries should establish awritten policy with the following, minimal,provisions:

only one person should beresponsible for key control,issuance, and retrieval;

keys will be distributed onlyon a documented need basis;

a set system of key retrievalshould be instituted andapplied to all employees (i.e.,the last two weeks' pay iswithheld until all signed forkeys are returned);

locks shall be rekeyedwhenever a key cannot beaccounted for, is reported lost,is stolen, or cannot berecovered;

all spare keys will be storedin a secure space or containerwhere they cannot be removedwithout authorization.

Additional Security Considerations

Some discussion of security concernsoffered in the section on landscaping willbe briefly repeated in these discussions. Majorissues include:

62

avoiding the use ofshrubberyaround the building, orlimiting its use to low-profileplantings;

ensuring that no landscapingfeatures conceal libraryentrances or windows;

avoiding the use of anylandscaping features that couldbe used for vandalism; and

providing adequate securitylighting.

At times it may be important to ensurethe staff have clear sight lines to the entranceand building approaches. This may requirecareful orientation of internal furnishings andwork areas. This approach will also provideclear vistas into the building at night, assistingsecurity patrols in their rounds.

Some libraries have requested a "vault"be part of new construction, perhaps for thestorage of computer records, microfilm, orother materials. Specially planned securityaccommodations must be included in thedesign early. The degree of protection willdepend on exactly what is intended to bestored and how much the library is willing topay. Keep in mind that a vault typically meansthat not simply must the doors be resistant toattac:., but also the walls, floor, and ceiling.Vaults are rated by both the Insurance ServicesOffice (ISO) and Underwriter's Laboratories(UL). Recently, modular vault systems (for usewhere floor loading is critical) and steel linings(for retrofits) have been developed. Vaults mayalso require additional levels of fire protectionand environmental control.

BOOK RETURNS

Preservation Issues

Preservationists have argued thatvarious book return chutes or drops are"chambers of horrors" for books, although thisview has little impressed librarians or patrons.For both, books returns are a matter ofconvenience and will probably be found in andaround libraries for the foreseeable future.

Libraries continue to be built withbook returns attached directly to the facility.These are justified by noting they protectbooks, tapes, and other materials from theexcessive heat of exterior return boxes; theyprotect the materials (and staff) from severeweather; and they allow overworked staff tomore quickly deal with returned items. Otherinstitutions use return boxes, located next tothe curb, to allow motorists the convenience ofreturning library materials without thenecessity of parking.

All book returns tend to mangle anddamage books simply through the process oftheir sliding into a dead zone and "free- falling"onto some hard surface. Books damage otherbooks as the return area become fuller. Someof these problems can be partially overcome byusing spring loaded returns. Libraries canavoid all of these problems with book returnsor chutes in circulation used by patrons withinthe library by simply asking patrons to returnbooks to a designated portion of the counter,avoiding the book return totally. Patrons alsocan be requested to return books to one of thespecially marked shelves found throughout theranges.

Book returns attached to the librarybuilding pose threats beyond the damage to

63

individual volumes. They of fer the opportunityfor vandalism -- ranting from releasinghundreds of crickets into the library tointroducing an incendiary device into thebuilding. A recent example of the latteroccurred in Vermont, where a library sustained$11,000 in structural damage and $54,000 indamage to collections from a book return fire(the library did not have either an automaticdetection or suppression system and the firewas observed by a passerby).

These problems may be avoided bycreating a room or vault into which the booksare returned. This room should have fireresistive walls, fire detection, and a firesuppression system. Even if your library doesnot have a sprinkler system, small, self -contained ceiling mounted automatic halonextinguishers are available for rooms up to 610cubic feet. The room should be thoroughlysealed from the rest of the building (includingscreened air vents) to prevent the movement ofinsects. A floor drain should be provided incase vandals try to flood the building. Thedoor (which should always be closed) leadingto this room should have a small glass windowso staff can see what might be present.

Book returns mounted outside, awayfrom the building may be less convenient to thestaff and may expose collections to hostileenvironmental conditions, but they are generallysafer. They limit the damage that vandals cando at any one time to a very small proportionof the library's holdings. Even here thedamage can be limited by providing a drainslot in the return chute in case liquids arepoured in. Book returns with a "snuff -out"device can be used to limit damage from arson.

BEST COPY AVAILABLE

LANDSCAPING

Introduction

Landscaping is typically conductedwith aesthetics, not preservation, in mind.While relatively few architects are versed inpreservation concerns, even fewer landscapearchitects are likely to consider immediatelythe preservation of the collection whendesigning the features surrounding the library.Even when the landscape architect is sensitiveto the issues raised here, this area is often thefirst place the budget is cut.

Preservation and landscaping arecertainly not mutually exclusive. Nor willpreservation concerns add dramatically to thecost of the project. By carefully integratinglandscape and preservation concerns, long-term costs will likely be reduced.

Vegetation

The benefits of planting trees includetheir ability to retard wind, provide glare andradiation protection, and contribute towardsound attenuation. Many of these featurescontribute toward the preservation of librarymaterials and may serve to reduce maintenancecosts.

Recent research has shown that treesand woodland parks are the primary biologicalsinks for air pollutants. The surfaces of treesare effective at trapping particulate pollution,which will eventually be absorbed or washedto the ground. Trees remove gaseouscompoun2s from the atmosphere primarily byuptake through the stomata, although someuptake may alLo occur through bark pores,absorption of gases through various parts ofthe plant, and by microbes on the plants. Treesand other plants chosen for urban settings andintended to provide the amenity of cleaningthe air must be able to withstand the adverseinfluences of air pollution (as well as other

64

urban stresses, such as nutrient deficiencies,drought, and microclimatic extremes).

In spite of the benefits, landscapeplanners should ensure that any plantings (orexisting trees) will not overhang the building.Such trees present a danger to the security ofcollections by encouraging dampness instructural walls; contributing debris that clogroof drains and gutters, increasing thelikelihood of leaks; providing an avenue intothe structure for a variety of pests, includingcockroaches, rodents, and birds; and posing adanger to structural integrity in the event ofsevere winds.

Ideally, shrubs and organic mulch willnever be used adjacent to the library building.The practice of landscaping adjacent to thestructure promotes water penetration (throughsprinklers) and encourages a variety of pests(such as cockroaches and fleas). If shrubs mustbe used, an inorganic mulch (such as small pe,gravel) is much preferred over organic barkmulches. The gravel offers less harborage forpests, and provides the added benefits of beingmore durable, cleaner, and requiring lessmaintenance.

If shrubs are placed against thestructure, they should never be allowed toobscure low windows or grow to the size thatthey provide hiding places for vandals ormuggers. Small bushes requiring little or nomaintenance are preferred over largerplantings that require constant trimming.

Any shrubs used should be non-flowering. A variety of flowers attract pests(such as dermestid betties) that are damagingto library collections. By avoiding their usealtogether, the library can reduce maintenancecosts and pesticide use.

Libraries should exclude all live

74

vegetation (as well as cut flowers) frominterior spaces. Both live plants and cut flowersharbor a variety of pests that can damagelibrary collections. The appropriate locationfor live plants is outdoors, not in the library.

Water and Drainage

The grades should be laid out to allowwater to safely flow away from the structure.Stormwater drains, as discussed in the sectionon plumbing, should be established to ensurethat low points and access areas to the buildingare adequately drained. Drywells typically donot offer sufficient capacity and areinappropriate for piedmont clay soils.

Vegetation sprinkler systems, when usedin the immediate vicinity of the library, shoulddirect water away from the structure, nottoward it. The maintenance staff shouldperiodically inspect the system to re-adjustany sprinkler heads that are wetting thebuilding. An ideal solution is the use of belowground soaker hoses, or drip irrigation, ratherthan sprinklers.

As discussed under plumbing issues, alloutdoor spigots or hose connectors should berecessed and lockable. If this is not possible,the library should at least ensure the handlesare removed to discourage opportunisticvandalism.

Other Landscape Features

Exterior lighting is considered anecessity for patron and staff safety. Yet in thepast a great deal of exterior lighting was usedalmost solely for the visual enhancement of thelibrary at night. As utility costs increase, thisform of light pollution will be curtailed andexterior lighting will again be used primarilyfor security. Comprehensive security lighting,including the perimeter, structures, andpassageways, is probably not necessary at mostlibraries, although this is a decision to be madebased on local circumstances. Lighting shouldrespond to various site hazards, such as ramps,steps, sudden turns, and embankments.

65

Overhead lighting is more efficient andeconomical than low level lighting. For pestcontrol concerns, lighting should be placedaway from the building. If the structure itselfneeds to be lit, up lighting should be used. Theuse of high pressure sodium lamps is preferredsince this type is least attractive to insects. Inaddition, the lamps have a long life span andare economical to operate.

Related to pest control, the landscapeplanner should design an area removed fromthe building to place trash dumpsters. Byremoving this facility from the librarybuilding the potential for a variety of pests isreduced. This area may also house a groundsmaintenance shed which will ensure gasolinefor lawn mowers and pesticides are stored wellaway from the collections.

Some libraries have integratedfountains and waterfalls into their landscapes.While undoubtedly attractive, such featuresincrease the relative humidity in the vicinityof the library, provide an additional source ofwater capable of damaging collections, andmay encourage vandalism. If fountains must beused, these related preservation issues shouldbe mitigated. For example, water concerns willbe lessened if the fountain has adequatedrainage and is situated down slope from thelibrary. By removing the fountain from thelibrary building area, concerns over humiditywill be reduced. Vandalism may remain aproblem, but the removal of the fountain fromthe immediate library area will probablyreduce the risk to the collections shouldvandalism occur.

Finally, any additional landscapefeatures should be designed to be vandalismproof. Benches and tables should either be tooheavy or adequately bolted down to preventtheir movement. No materials should beprovided near the library that could be used asprojectiles.

COST CONSIDERATIONS

Is Preservation Affordable?

For too long preservation has beenviewed as a cost, a single line item in a longlist of "wants," matched with an evershortening list of funds. In fact, the question isnot "can preservation be afforded ?" but rather,"can we afford not to engage in preservation?"

Economics is the prime motivator indetermining what the library will incorporateinto new construction. Yet, few librarians aresufficiently versed in various methods of costanalysis that can be used to determine theeconomic feasibility of preservation issues(such as fire detection, or a proper HVACsystem, or the installation of water alarms).

While architects are well versed in costanalysis, they are typically not familiar withmajor preservation issues, the importance ofthese issues to the library, the benefits derivedby the library from adequate preservationplanning, or the conseq iences of poorpreservation planning. In addition, it is anunfortunate fact that architectural designs winawards on the basis of issues other thansprinkler systems, dehumidification capabilityof the HVAC system, or the installation ofwater alarms. The architect's mind will be onissues other than those essential topreservation. It is up to the library, to remindthe architect that preservation is an essentialelement of the overall building plan.

It is important for those in libraries,and their governing boards, to understand therelationship between the initial cost (or capitalcost) and the on-going maintenance costs (orlife cycle costs, discussed below). While thereare always exceptions, in general a buildingprocured cheaply through intentional design,will have high maintenance costs. Inconstruction, perhaps more than anywhere elsein life, the old adage, "you get what you pay

66

for," applies.

Often libraries make this trade-off ofbuilding cheaply and maintaining expensivelybecause capital costs are hard to come by;maintenance costs seem easier to obtain; andsociety wants more for less.

There should be enough horror storiesto deter such compromises, but they continueto be made. Many institutions have found thedecision to "build cheaply" was short-sighted.While there was an implicit "understanding" or"agreement" regarding the consequences of thedecision, after a few years the governing boardchanged and all previous decisions andagreements were forgotten, althoughrecriminations frequently linger.

It is rarely, if ever, in the best interestsof the library to use materials known to have alimited life, accept services that meet only thebarest minimum standards, or change outpermanent fixtures for impermanent fixtures.The yardstick of "more-for-less" has resultedin nearly 20 years of library building that oftenfails at meeting minimal preservationstandards and needs.

Cost Analyses

In cost analysis the impact of differentdesigns, construction techniques, andequipment installations is examined. The goalis to determine the relative worth of neteconomic gains of different options comparedto the net economic costs.

The library should realize thelimitations of cost analysis. The mostsignificant limitation is that cost analysescannot incorporate benefits which have noclear cost savings. Of course, it is usuallypossible to at least estimate benefits.

7C

The second limitation is that costanalyses are, in themselves, costly, since theyinvolve the architect's time. Consequently,they should be requested only when justifiedby the costs involved.

The purpose of this discussion is not tospecify the various techniques. If the librariandesires to know more about economic analysis,an excellent text is Norman Baresh andSeymour Kaplan's Economic Analysis forEngineering and Managerial Decision Making,Second Edition (1978) published by McGrawHill. Basic analyses, however, include:

Life Cycle Costs calculatesall of the costs associated with4n option over its life toevaluate expenditures duringthe period of use.

Annual Cash Flow Analysisfuture sums and present worthare converted to provideuniform annual costs.

Benefit/Cost Analysiscompares the economicbenefits to the costs of theproject.

Payback Period - calculatesthe length of time required forthe benefits from a project toequal the cost of theinvestment.

The librarian should also realize many,if not most, of the preservation suggestionsoffered here will not only affect thepreservation of the collections, but will alsoimpact the general health and well-being ofstaff and patrons, improve the appearance ofthe building, make routine maintenance moreconvenient, and so forth. In other words,seeking the "pay-back" only in preservation ofcollections focuses the study too narrowly.

And finally, while the library isencouraged to explore economic analyses, itshould be remembered that the "value" of somecollections is their representation of our

67

intellectual, cultural, or spiritual past.Converting that value to dollars and cents canperhaps be achieved if the collection isexamined only in the context of what it wouldraise at a public auction, but this ignores thegreater value of having the resource availableto society.

Preservation and Maintenance

As an example of how preservation canaffect other facets of the library, it may beuseful to briefly examine the relationshipbetween good preservation and goodmaintenance, and how the two relate to thebuilding program.

The first aspect is that maintenancecosts, when compared to interest charges,salaries, equipment and its replacement, and arange of similar costs, is still relatively low.Some would argue too low, especially sinceroutine maintenance (often overlooked) ismuch less costly than crisis maintenance.Planned maintenance will ensure that crises,which often threaten the collections, are lesslikely to occur. This view was presented witheloquent simplicity in 1877 by William Morrisin the Manifesto of the Society for Protectionof Ancient Buildings: "stave off decay by dailycare."

Specifying low or minimal maintenanceto your architect can also help the preservationof the collections. There are four significantareas where the "low- maintenance" concept canbe especially significant.

The first is in the building form. Theimportance of thermal design and energyefficiency, and how these are affected by thebuilding form, have already been discussed.The library should ensure easy access to allparts of the building for maintenance. Forexample, pitched roofs are often more difficultto maintain than flat roofs. Skylights and highwindows are rarely, if ever, cleaned, lamps infixtures which require scaffolding to bereplaced will likely stay burned out. All ofthese issues relate to the ease of access. Theless likely it is that the maintenance crew willexamine a part of the building, the more likely

'77

that there will be some failure affectingcollections.

The second area of concern is thebuilding detail. The axiom that "simplicity isthe essence of good design" is particularlyimportant in preservation. The more complexand elaborate the design, the less likely it willbe properly executed, the less likely it can beeasily repaired, and the more likely problemswill eventually affect the collection. Likewise,economies in detail can have serious, and longrange, consequences. For example, the failureof flat roofs can usually be traced back toinadequate detailing and specification.

The third area of low-maintenanceconcern is in building services. Mechanical andelectrical services typically account for 40% ofthe total building cost, yet they are hiddenfrom view and often ignored. Often costcutting measures are aimed at such buildingservices as the HVAC system - - hidden, Gut ofsight and out of mind. Few libraries expressmuch concern over the HVAC system until itfails, or is unable to prevent mold outbreaksevery spring. A principal rule of services isthey should be adequately specified andinstalled. Further, they must be easilyaccessible. Finally, all services should beaccompanied by clear, detailed, and accurateoperation manuals, as-built drawings, andmaintenance schedules.

68

The final area of concern involves thechoice of materials. All materials for librariesshould be selected with three questions inmind:

how will the selectedmaterial stand up to use?

how easily can it be cleanedand/or maintained?

how easily can it be repairedor replaced?

Libraries receive a great deal of wearand tear. Materials should be selected towithstand the demands placed on them and toreduce the level of maintenance required. Forexample, any exterior woodwork will requirepainting at least every three years and willhave a life expectancy of no more than 15years. Replacing wood with synthetic materialsmay be a wise maintenance decision. Likewise,a marble entrance foyer will require much lessmaintenance, and will last much longer, thaneither carpet or linoleum.

When cleaning and maintenance aremade easier, the building will be better able toensure the long-term preservation of thecollections.

CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES

Introduction

The goal of this section is to helplibrarians better understand the process, toknow what will be expected of them and whatthey may reasonably expect of others. Thissection is also intended to ensure preservationconcerns are reinforced throughout theconstruction process and are not allowed to beforgotten or disregarded. The publication byLull and Banks, Conservation EnvironmentGuidelines for Libraries and Archives providesexcellent advice and should be consulted.

Libraries will find the processes ofeven a small renovation project are essentiallythe same as those found in the construction ofa new facility. There will be some aspectswhich can be legitimately combined, and thisshould not be of concern. On small renovationprojects there is often the tendency to dispensewith the services of an architect, hire acontractor, and have that individual serve,essentially, as the design team. At times thismay not be inappropriate, but the libraryshould insist that all of the essential functionsof the design team (such as exploringalternative approaches, conducting costanalyses, producing detailed drawings andspecifications) are completed by thecontractor. Architects can serve a valuableoversight function, ensuring the contractoradheres to the design specifications.

Developing a Building Program

It is the responsibility of the library toclearly outline its needs and the goals of theproposed building or renovation program.

This process should be carefullyconsidered and have the input of all stafflevels. Unfortunately, too often the buildingprogram comes from the governing authority,which often has little knowledge of daily

69

library needs, much less preservation goals.Consequently, while the final building planmay come from the governing authority, itshould originate from the staff level. In largerinstitutions it is appropriate to form acommittee, incorporating individuals from allof the various departments (technical services,public services, maintenance, and so forth).

The building program should not onlyindicate what the library wants, but shouldalso indicate essential elements and placebounds on the future architectural design team.For example, the executive summary of thisdocument can be incorporated into thebuilding plan to clearly outline the essentialelements of preservation. It is essential that thebuilding program be a written documentcovering all of the building features thecommittee feels are important. Nothing shouldbe left to memos, letters, "understandings," orverbal agreements.

Programming consultants, oftenarchitectural firms with specialized experiencein library construction, may be used at thisstage, to help clarify issues and interpretneeds.

This may include a feasibility study,during which the programming consultanttakes the library building program andcompares the expressed needs with theavailable money. The outcome is that thelibrary must decide to abandon, modify, orproceed. It is at this phase many qualitativedecisions are implicitly made, although little,if any, actual design work is made.Consequently, it is at this early phasepreservation can face its first battle as it willcome under attack to save money.

Many experts believe architecturalfirms working with the library at this stageshould not go on to prepare the design, but

79

rather should be retained, as necessary, toreview designs and help assure the library thedesigns are consistent with the original intentof the building plan. This division ensureschecks and balances in the design processwhich can ultimately work to the library'sbenefit. On the other hand, it often makessense to have the same firm do bothprogramming and architectural work becauseof the cost, efficiency, and expertise of thisapproach. Regardless, it is important toestablish a budget which is coordinated withthe developed program. This will become thedesign instrument and control for the buildingprogram.

Selecting the Design Team

Depending on the size of the job, thedesign team may consist of a variety ofarchitects and engineers. The design team willserve as the library's principal agents in thedesign and construction process and mustconsequently be carefully selected.

Under some conditions the library maysolicit letters of interest and accompanyingqualifications statements. At other times theinstitution will use its building programdocument to solicit proposals. Designcompetitions, where awards are usually madesolely on architectural merit by individualswith little or no library experience, can saddlethe institution with a building that is not onlyimpractical, but also fails to meet even themost minimal preservation standards. Thisapproach should be avoided by the library.

Likewise, some institutions may seekthe services of a high profile design architect,hoping that this individual's involvement willhelp to raise funds for the project. The downside of this approach is the high-profilearchitect may be overly interested in creatingan award - winning design with the associatedconstruction costs being passed on to thelibrary.

Libraries may find there are a varietyof very capable and practical local architectswho can provide excellent services. Whileprevious experience in library design is usually

70

a plus, the library staff would do well to visit,or at least talk with, staff at the other librariesan architect has designed. This is particularlyuseful to ensure preservation concerns wereintegrated into the design, and appropriatelyachieved during construction. Even arecognized library architect can fail tounderstand the importance of preservation.

The Design Process

Regardless of how the design team hasbeen selected, its functions should always bethe same. Most importantly, the library shouldtake the lead in its relationship with the designteam, rather than blindly followingrecommendations. The design team shouldserve, not dictate, the needs of the library andshould constantly recognize that the library isthe client who makes the decisions. The goalshould be to design and construct a functionallibrary capable of preserving library materials,not winning an architectural award. Aestheticgoals must never be allowed to compromise thepreservation of collections.

The American Institute of Architectsrecognize five basic phases:

schematic design phase,

design development phase,

construction documentsphase,

bidding or negotiation phase,and

construction phase (discussedin a following section).

In the schematic design phase thearchitect reviews the building programdeveloped by the library (or by the library andprogramming consultants, if different from theselected firm). The project budget may againbe compared to the building program.

In this phase the library should insistthat a wide variety of options be explored --

SO

calling on the greatest.creative imagination ofthe team. One of the major problems is toooften the design team will examine problemsonly from the perspective of how thoseproblems have been solved in the past. Therecannot be too many ideas, especially if theyare sensitive to preservation.

The outcome of the schematic designphase will be documents and drawingsindicating the scale and relationship of theproject components, as well as a verypreliminary estimate of construction costs.These must be carefully reviewed andapproved by the library, especially if there areany major changes to the intent of the buildingprogram.

Next will be the design developmentphase. Taking the approved schematic designdocuments the design team will preparedocuments and plans which fix and describethe architectural, structural, mechanical, andelectrical systems and materials.

During this process a three-dimensional framework for the project isdeveloped. Each of the various design ideaspreviously developed is further explored, lifecycle costs are calculated, computer modelsand simulations will be run, and the variousideas will be either eliminated or refined forintegration into the final design.

In these early stages the library shouldexpect frequent (perhaps weekly) reviews ofthe design team's progress. As time passes thedesign becomes clearer and hence easier towork with, but it also becomes less flexible,and changes become more costly. The librarywill want to keep in very close touch with thedesign team and ensure that preservationconcerns are consistently integrated into theplanning. While not all systems will be detailedearly in the process, the library should expectsome fairly concrete narratives of how systemswill be designed, how they will operate, andhow they will be budgeted. Hearing the words,"Oh, we will work out how to ensure humiditycontrol later," is a sure sign the process is off-track and needs immediate and drasticrevision. Too frequently "later" will never

71

come, or it will come when there is no moneyleft in the budget.

The library should continue tomaintain control of the design process. Theinstitution should insist the design team fullyexplain all issues and intelligibly answer allquestions. The library staff should only acceptdesigns when they are totally comfortable withall of the features and aspects. Until then thestaff should continue to ask questions.

During this process the design teamwill refine the construction budget prepared aspart of the schematic design phase. The libraryshould insist this budget reflect the prioritiesin design and preservation issues (such as anadequate HVAC system, a sprinkler system, oradequate light control) not be hidden elementsthat can be easily cut later. The library shouldrequire the design team to develop a budgetcontingency plan that outlines what will becut, if cuts are necessary at a later stage. Onlythrough this process can the library berelatively certain that essential preservationconcerns are not eliminated later in theprocess.

Throughout these processes the librarymust remain alert to the needs of preservation.While intended for larger libraries, publicinstitutions can also obtain considerableassistance from Leighton and Weber's PlanningAcademic and Research Library Buildings,published by the American LibraryAssociation. The discussion of "The ReviewProcess" is particularly useful and will helpinstitutions to examine the preliminary andschematic designs with a more critical eye. It isalso helpful during these stages to ask thedesign team preservation questions (such as,"Where, exactly, is the sewage cleanout valvelocated?").

During the construction documentsphase the design team will take the previouslygenerated information and transform it intoconstruction documents, including drawingsand specifications, which establish therequirements for the construction of theproject.

8

Broadly speaking the design team willbe working on three types of products:

drawings, which show wherethings are, how they arearranged, and how they are puttogether,

lists of quantities, whichindicate bow many things willbe used and the labor involvedtranslated into costs, and

specifications, whichdocument the nature andquality of the proposedmaterials.

Of these three, the specifications areoften the most important from a preservationstandpoint. The goal of the specifications is todefine the quality of the materials going intothe project, the level of workmanshipexpected, and the quality of the finishedproduct in such a way that the library, thearchitect, the contractor, and the subcontractorcan all agree on what is meant and determinewhether it has been provided. It is veryimportant that librarians not "skip over" themass of written specifications.

The phrase, "or equal," will often beseen in the specifications, whether the itemsare paint, or chairs, or roofing. While there aresome legitimate reasons for this approach,there are also serious pitfalls. One of thegreatest is determining if, in fact, variousproducts are equivalents. The library should bealert to the practice, especially since the use ofalternatives may be an easy way to cut costsand bring the job in "on budget." The designteam can evaluate substitutions proposed bycontractors, but this is an additional servicewhich requires additional compensation.

The design team will assist the libraryin the preparation of bidding information,bidding forms, contract conditions, and theagreement for use between the library and theselected contractor.

The bid documents include those items

72

to be sent out to potential contractors for thebid process. The library should carefullyreview this package, since these documentsreflect the structure and systems the librarywill be living with for the next severaldecades. At this stage the design work iscomplete, and all of the design funds havebeen spent by the architect. In spite of this,design is always less expensive thanconstruction and if there are problems it isalways better to stop the process than to buildan unacceptable structure.

The bid package should include severalimportant features often overlooked. The firstis a provision for a stable performance testperiod. This allows the building and itsservices to be tested for a certain period oftime (perhaps six months) to assure that all areworking properly. This provision should applyto major elements, such as the HVAC system,the roof, piping, drains, or any features wherefailure could threaten the collection. The bidpackage should indicate the systems covered,the length of time, and the criteria foracceptable performance. The contract shouldspecify that only after the successfulcompletion of this stable performance testperiod will the library give final acceptance onthe building (have your attorney examine thisprovision from the perspective of "beneficialoccupancy" and have the contract correctlyworded). While some contractors may declineto bid, this should not dissuade the library.Other contractors will be found.

The bid package should also require thecontractor to provide complete systemdocumentation, including:

copies of the as -built plans(usually submitted as marked-up prints),

copies of all shop drawings,

all service manuals andoperating instructions, and

copies of all warranties andassociated information.

2

The library may also wish to pay the designteam to prepare additional informationcovering the daily operation of the buildingservices, emergency shut-downs and start- ups,and essential maintenance procedures.

In the bidding or negotiation phase thedesign team will help the library actuallyobtain bids or negotiated proposals, and assistin awarding and preparing contracts.

The Construction Process

The construction process typicallyincludes the actual construction. During thisphase the design team is usually responsible forthe administration of the Contract forConstruction. The architect or other memberof the design team will periodically visit theconstruction site. The purpose of these visits isto become familiar with the progress andquality of the work, but not to engage inexhaustive inspections.

Libraries should strive to break themonopoly of "low -bid." While constructionconsists of concrete, steel, and wood, it also

,involves skill, previous experience, andingenuity. The former can be "low bid," thelatter cannot. It is much more effective toselect a middle bid and expect that firm toprovide careful attention to constructiondetails.

The design team (particularly thearchitect and engineer) can be retained tomake more frequent inspections of theconstruction site than is normally anticipatedunder standard agreements. This will betterensure that the design is being properlyexecuted and the materials being used arethose specified. The design team, paid for thisservice, will be acting as the agent of thelibrary, protecting its interests and ensuringthat preservation issues and concerns areunderstood by the contractor andsubcontractors. Exactly how often these"periodic" visits are should be carefull!,specified -- a lot can happen during a week ona cor Itruction site.

Even with periodic inspections by the

design team or architect, it is still essential thatthe library pay careful attention toconstruction details and practices. Oneexcellent source of information on this isRebecca Thatcher Ellis' paper, GettingFunction from Design: Making Systems Work,delivered to the 1991 meeting of the Society ofAmerican Archivists, copies of which areavailable from the Northeast DocumentConservation Center (listed in the Resourcessection). Librarians, however, should realizethat the normal communication route with thecontractor is through the architect.

Inspection, Moving In, and Shake Down

There comes a point in constructionreferred to as "substantial completion," whenthe library construction is more or lesscompleted. At this point the library staff(often with the design team) should make avery careful inspection of the facility,preparing a "punch list." This punch list shouldcover any flaws in construction, deficiencies,or omissions. It can range from a flawed paintjob, to inappropriate door sills, to the failureto install dampers, to a missing electrical outletor cover plate to leaking pipes. The institutionmay also wish to bring their programmingconsultants back into the loop at this stage, toparticipate in the building review.

The importance of this punch listcannot be overstated. It is essential the librarycover all visible problems at this stage. Theissues should be legitimate, and the libraryshould expect satisfaction. Naturally, thelibrary will be holding a major retainer on thecontractor to ensure that the problems arecorrected.

It is also at this stage a variety ofbuilding services will be independently tested.For example, the HVAC system will besubjected to an independent test and balanceby an independent certified test and balanceengineer (usually not the mechanicalengineering firm that installed the equipment).The fire detection and suppression system willalso be independently tested and certified. Thedesign team engineer should review these tests.

73

8 3

At this point the library will want toobtain all of the system documentation (such asshop drawings, as-built drawings, manuals,warranties, and so forth) from the contractor.

Only after all of the punch list itemsare corrected, all of the documentation hasbeen provided, and the stable performance testperiod is complete, should the librai y agree tothe final acceptance of the building. It isimportant to realize that once this finalacceptance has been given, the contractor'sretainage (usually 2 to 20%) is released and hewill lose considerable interest in any problemsthe facility might face. To solve any problemsafter final acceptance the library must rely onwarranties, good faith, or legal action - - noneof which offer a great deal of hope.

Ellis' article, Getting Function FromDesign: Making Systems Work, is again anexcellent source for libraries which want toinsure that systems function as designed.

The April 1992 issue of AmericanLibraries offers several articles on the logisticsof moving a library. To these comments it isimportant to stress the preservation needs ofthe collection even during the move. For largerinstitutions it is likely volunteers will helppack and move. Be sure books are packed withpreservation in mind, taking care not todamage materials. Packed books should bemoved as quickly as possible and should beprotected from weather throughout thetransfer.

The Northeast Document ConservationCenter also has prepared excellent advice forinstitutions which are undergoing renovations(Vulnerability of Collections DuringRenovations). In general there are severalmajor areas of concern:

protection of the collectionsfrom wet trades, such asplumbing,

protection of the collectionsfrom water damage, such asplumbing or roof repair,

74

protection of the collectionsfrom direct constructiondamage, such as falling debrisand tools,

protection of the collectionsfrom both particulates (dustand grit) and gaseous pollutants(glues and similar solvents),

protection of the collectionsfrom increased fire hazardscaused by construction, and

protection of the collectionsfrom an increased securitythreat (theft, mutilation).

The new library should also be purgedto remove construction off -gassing,construction particulates, and constructionmoisture. This may be accomplished byrunning the HVAC system for several weeksbefore collections arrive (but after allconstruction is completed) and replacing filtersbefore the collections are moved. All floors,counter tops, and book shelves should bewashed or mopped (not just brushed or dusted)during this stage.

For the stable test performance periodto be of any use, the staff must be constantlyalert to problems, however minor. Leaks afterheavy rains, fly.ctuating humidity ortemperature, condensation on pipes, and soforth, must be noted in an events log andbrought to the attention of the contractor, inwriting, for repair or replacement ofequipment. The library should also undertake24-hour monitoring of environmentalconditions using a recordinghygrothermograph. This will help documentenvironmental problems and may assist intracking down the cause. If there is anoverwhelming "new" smell in the institution, inspite of requirements to use low- emissionproducts, the library should conductformaldehyde monitoring.

REFERENCES AND RESOURCES

Selected References

American Institute of Architects. StandardForm of Agreement Between Owner andArchitect, 1987 Edition. Washington, D.C.:AIA Document B141, 1987.

American Society for Industrial Safety.Suggested Guidelines in Museum Security.Arlington, Virginia: ASIS StandingCommittee on Museum, Library, andArchives Security, n.d.

American Society of Heating, Refrigerationand Air - Conditioning Engineers. Ventilationfor Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, ASHRAEStandard 62-1989, 1989.

The Human Equation: Health andComfort, ASHRAE IAQ 89, 1990.

Arnold, Christopher. "In Earthquakes, FailureCan Follow Form." AIA Journal (June1980):33-41.

Appelbaum, Barbara. Guide to EnvironmentalProtection of Collections. Madison,Wisconsin: Sound View Press, 1991.

Ayres, J. Max, J. Carlos Haiad, and HenryLau. Energy Conservation and ClimateControl in Museums. Marina del Rey,California: The Getty Conservation Institute,1988.

Banks, Paul N. "Environmental Standards forStorage of Books and Manuscripts." LibraryJournal 99 (1974):339-343.

Baresh, Norman and Seymour Kaplan.Economic Analysis for Engineering andManagerial Decision Making, SecondEdition. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1978.

Blume, John A. "The Mitigation and

Prevention of Earthquake Damage toArtifacts." In Protecting Historic Architectureand Museum Collections from NaturalDisasters, edited by Barclay G. Jones, 197-210. Boston: Butterworths, 1986.

Bower, John. The Healthy House. New York:Carol Communications, 1989.

Caffrey, Ronald J. "Using Energy ManagementSystems." ASHRAE Journal June (1983):33-34.

Canadian Conservation Institute. Using aCamera to Measure Light Levels. CCI Notes2/5. Ottawa, Canada, 1983.

Ultraviolet Filters for FluorescentLamps. CCI Notes 2/1. Ottawa, Canada,1988.

Carson. Wayne G. Fire Protection Systems:Inspection, Test and Maintenance Manual.Quincy, Massachusetts: National FirePr )tection Association, 1986.

Cohen, Elaine. "Talking to Architects."American Libraries 20 (1989):299.

Cote, Arthur E. and Jim Linville, eds. FireProtection Handbook, 16th ed. Quincy,Massachusetts: National Fire ProtectionAssociation, 1986.

Cox, Anne M. "Three Faults, No Flaws: Well-Planned and Quake-Safe." AmericanLibraries April (1990):305- 306.

Crow, W.J., Rosemary J. Erickson, and LloydScott. "Set Your Sights on Preventing RetailViolence." Security Management September,1987.

Dillon, Michael E. "The Other Risk in SmokeControl Design." ASHRAE Journal July

75

5

(1991):19-22.

Ellis, Rebecca Thatcher. "Getting FunctionFrom Design: Making Systems Work."Northeast Document Conservation Center,Andover, Massachusetts, 1991.

"Energy Management Systems Save More ThanMoney; They Protect Artwork." AirConditioning, Heating and RefrigerationNews August 3 (1987):34-35.

Harris, Carolyn. "The PreservationConsiderations in Electronic SecuritySystems." Library and Archival Security 11(1991):35-44.

Hartman, Thomas. "Humidity Control."Heating I Piping /Air Conditioning September(1989):111-113.

Hatchfield, Pamela and Jane Carpenter.Formaldehyde: How Great is the Danger toMuseum Collections? Cambridge,Massachusetts: Center for Conservation andTechnical Studies, Harvard University ArtMuseum, 1987.

Hoke, John Ray, Jr., ed. AIA ArchitecturalGraphic Standards, 8th ed. New York: JohnWiley and Sons, 1988.

Kayafas, Nick. "Monitoring for Particulates,Aerosols, Dusts, and Fumes." IndustrialHygiene News, March (1992):4-35.

Kroller, Franz. "Energy Saving in the Planningof Library Buildings." In Library InteriorLayout and Design, edited by Rolf Fuhlrottand Michael Dewe, 70-82. InternationalFederation of Library Associations andInstitutions Publication 24. Munchen: K.G.Saur, 1982.

LaFollette, Larry A. "Help: We Can't Breathein Here!" Records Management Quarterly25(1991):24-27.

Lafontaine, Raymond H. and Patricia A.Wood. Fluorescent Lamps. Technical Bulletin7, Canadian Conservation Center, Ottawa,

76

Canada, 1982.

Leighton, Philip D. and David C. Weber.Planning Academic and Research LibraryBuildings, 2nd ed. Chicago: AmericanLibrary Association, 1986.

Lesso, William G. "The Effect on BuildingCosts Due to Improved Wind ResistantStandards." In Hurricanes and CoastalStorms, edited by Earl J. Baker, 109-114.Gainesville: Florida Sea Grant CollegeReport 33,1980.

Lincoln, Alan J. "Key Control." Library andArchival Security 9(1989):59-65.

Lotz, William A. "Humidity Without MoistureProblems." Heating / Piping /AirConditioning. September (1989):117-119.

Lull, William P. "Private Monograph onSelecting Fluorescent Lamps for UVOutput." Princeton Junction: New Jersey:Garrison/Lull. Photocopy, 1992.

Lull, William P. and Paul N. Banks.Conservation Environment Guidelines forLibraries and Archives. Albany, New York:New York State Library, Division of LibraryDevelopment, Albany, 1990.

Manley, Will. "Facing the Public." WilsonLibrary Bulletin 63 (1989):68-69.

Means, R.S. Company. Means GraphicConstruction Standards. Kingston,Massachusetts: R.S. Means Company, 1986.

Michel, Larry. "Retrofitting and Modernizingof the Avery Institute." ASHRAE JournalJuly (1990):24-27.

National Fire Protection Association. LightningProtection Code. NFPA 78-1989, Quincy,Massachusetts.

Test for Critical Radiant Flux of FloorCovering Systems Under a Radiant HeatEnergy Source, 1990 Edition. NFPA 253-1990, Quincy, Massachusetts.

Life Safety Code, 1992 Edition. NFPA101-1991, Quincy, Massachusetts.

National Electrical Code, 1993 Edition.NFPA 70-1993, Quincy, Massachusetts.

"A New Wave in Lighting: Examining the E-Lamp." Today's Facility ManagerJuly/August (1992):1, 17.

Northeast Document Conservation Center.Monitoring Temperature and RelativeHumidity: First Steps in Creating a Climatefor Preserving Paper and Photographs.Andover, Massachusetts: NortheastDocument Conservation Center, 1989.

Vulnerability of Collections DuringRenovations. Andover, Massachusetts:Northeast Document Conservation Center,1991.

Bibliography: Preservation in LibraryDesign. Andover, Massachusetts: NortheastDocument Conservation Center, 1992.

Nucholls, James L. Interior Lighting forEnvironmental Designers. New York: JohnWiley and Sons, 1976.

Phillips Lighting. Lamp Specification GuideSG-100. Somerset, New Jersey: PhillipsLighting Company, n.d.

Reynolds, Ann L., Nancy Schrock, and JoannaWalsh. "Preservation: The Public LibraryResponse." Library Journal February 15(1989):128 -132.

Robinson, William G. "Renovating the HistoricReynolda House Museum."ASHRAE JournalOctober (1991):24-28.

Rose, Ralph W. and David G. Westendorf."Multi-Hazard Ratings of Counties by Statesfor the United States." In P-otecting HistoricArchitecture and Museum Collections fromNatural Disasters, edited by Barclay G.Jones, 477-528. Butterworths, 1986.

Scott, Graeme, ed. Environmentai Monitoring

and Control: Preprints. East Lothian,Scotland: Scottish Society for Conservationand Restoration, Haddinton, 1989.

Southeastern Library Network. EnvironmentalSpecifications for the Storage of Library andArchival Materials. Atlanta, Georgia:SOLINET Preservation Program Leaflet 1,1985.

Southern Building Code Congress. StandardBuilding Code (with 1992 Amendments),Birmingham, Alabama: Standard BuildingCode Congress, 1991.

Stauffer, George H., ed. Urban Forester'sNotebook. Broomhall, Pennsylvania: ForestService General Technical Report NE-49,1978.

Stein, Benjamin, John S. Reynolds, William J.McGuinness. Mechanical and ElectricalEquipment for Buildings. New York: JohnWiley and Sons, 1986.

Stellman, Jeanne and Mary Sue Henifin.Office Work Can Be Dangerous to YourHealth. New York: Pantheon Books, 1983.

Sweet's Catalog File. "Indoor Environments."Sweet's Catalog File. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1988.

Thompson, Godfrey. Planning and Design ofLibrary Buildings, 3rd ed. London:Butterworths, 1989.

Thomson, Garry. The Museum Environment,2nd ed. London: Butterworths, 1986.

Tiller, James and Dennis B. Creech. EnergyDesign and Construction. Columbia, SouthCarolina: Governor's Division of Energy,Agriculture and Natural Resources, 1988.

Trinkley, Michael. "Integrated PestManagement in Libraries and Museums: orHow I Learned to Love Reduced PesticideUse." In 1991 Disaster Preparedness SeminarProceedings, edited by Pamela Meister, 118-119. Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Southeastern

7787

Museums Conference, 1991.

Can You Stand the Heat? A Fire SafetyPrimer for Libraries, Archives, and Museums.Altanta, Georgia: Southeastern LibraryNetwork, 1992.

[Trinkley, Michael] "Earthquakes in theSoutheast - Are You Prepared?" ChicoraFoundation Research 6 (September 1992):1-3.

Walch, Timothy. Archives and Manuscripts:Security. Chicago: Society of AmericanArchivists, 1977.

Watson, Don A. Construction Materials andProcesses. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1972.

Weintraub, Steven and Gordon 0. Anson."Technics: Natural Light in Museums: AnAsset or a Threat?" Progressive Architecture5 (1990):49-54.

Wise, Douglass. "Specifications for MinimalMaintenance." International Journal ofMuseum Management and Curatorship 3(1984):357-362.

Zycherman, Lynda A. and J. Richard Schrock.A Guide to Museum Pest Control.Washington, D.C.: Foundation of theAmerican Institute for Conservation ofHistoric and Artistic Works and Associationof Systematics Collections, 1988.

Preservation Assistance

Chicora Foundation, Inc.PO Box 8664Columbia, SC 29202S03/787-6910

Northeast Document Conservation Center100 Brickstone SquareAndover, MA 01810508/470-1010

Southeastern Library Network (SOLINET)Preservation Field Services1438 W Peachtree St, NW

78

Suite 200Atlanta, GA 30309800/999-8558Publisher of Environmental Specifications forthe Storage of Library and Archival Materials

South Carolina State LibraryNetwork ServicesPO Box 11469Columbia, SC 29211803/734-8666

The Building Envelope

National Institute of Building Sciences1015 Fifteenth StreetWashington, DC 20005202/347-5710

U.S. Department of EnergyOffice of Scientific and Technical Information1000 Independence AvenueWashington, D.C. 20585202/586-5000

Roofing

National Roofing Contractors Association86 Bryn Mawr AvenueChicago, IL 60631708/299-9070

Roofing Industry Educational Institute14 Inverness Drive E, Bldg. H, Suite 110Englewood, CO 80112303/790-7200

Lighting

Illuminating Engineering Society of NorthAmerica345 East 47th StreetNew York, New York 10017212/705-7900publisher of the IES Lighting Handbook

National Lighting Bureau2101 L Street, NWWashington, DC 20037202/457-8437

Canadian Conservation Institute1030 Innes RoadOttawa, Canada K1A 0M8613/998-3721CCI Notes 8, Ultraviolet Filters for FlorescentLampsCCI Technical Bulletin 7, Fluorescent Lamps

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute1501 Wilson Blvd.Arlington, VA 22209703/524-8800

National Center for Appropriate TechnologyPO Box 3838Butte, MT 59701

The American Society of Heating,RefrigeratingandAir-ConditioningEngineers,Inc.1791 Tullie Circle, NEAtlanta, GA 30329404/636-8400

Fire Safety Design

National Fire Protection Association1 Batterymarsh ParkPO Box 9101Quincy, MA 02269800/344-3555

Southeastern Library Network, Inc.(SOLINET)Preservation Field Services1438 W Peachtree St, NWSuite 200Atlanta, GA 30309800/999-8558Publisher of Can You Stand the Heat: A FireSafety Primer for Libraries, Archives, andMuseums

Southern Building Code CongressInternational, Inc.900 Montclair RoadBirmingham, AL 35213205/391-1853Publisher of the Standard Fire Prevention Code

79

Security

American Society for Industrial SecurityStanding Committee on Museum, Library andArchives Security1655 North Fort Myer DriveSuite 1200Arlington, VA 22209703/522-5800

Other Useful Addresses

American Association of Museums1225 Eye Street, NWSuite 200Washington, DC 20005202/289-1818

American Assoc. of State and Local History172 Second Avenue NorthNashville, TN 37201615/255-2971

American Institute for Conservation of Artisticand Historic Works1400 16th Street, NWSuite 340Washington, DC 20036202/232-6636

American Institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20006202/626-7300

American Library Association110 Maryland Avenue, NESuite 101Washington, DC 20002202/547-4400

American National Standards Institute1430 BroadwayNew York, NY 10018212/354-3300

American Society for Testing and Materials1916 Race StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19103215/299-5400

9

Association of Research Libraries1527 New Hampshire Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20036202/232-2466

Building Research Institute2101 Constitution Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20418

Commission on Preservation and Access1785 Massachusetts Avenue, NWRoom 313Washington, DC 20036202/483-7474

Construction Specifications Institute601 Madison StreetAlexandria, VA 22314703/684-0300

Earthquake Engineering Research Institute6431 Fairmount Avenue, Suite 7El Cerrito, CA 95430414/525-3668

Factory Mutual System1151 Boston Providence TurnpikeNorwood, MA 02062617-762-4300

80

Library of CongressOffice of the Assistant Director forPreservation101 Independence Avenue, SEWashington, DC 20540202/707-1840

National ArchivesPreservation Services Division7th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20408202/523-3220

National Technical Information ServiceU.S. Department of Commerce5285 Port Royal RoadSpringfield, VA 22161

Society of American Archivists600 S. Federal StreetSuite 504Chicago, IL 60605312/922-0140

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.333 Pfingsten RoadNorthbrook, IL 60062312/272-8800

90

APPENDIX I.USING A CAMERA LIGHT METER TO MEASURE LIGHT LEVELS

1. Place a sheet of white cardboard(foamcore or similar material) measuring 12 by16 inches at the position where the light levelis to be measured. Measurements shouldtypically be taken on a horizor.tal plane at thework area or area of concern.

2. Set the camera film ASA rating to800 and the shutter speed to 1/10 second. Ifthe camera has a switchable spot/averagingmeter, switch it to the averaging mode.

3. Aim the camera at the white boardand position it so that the entire viewfinder isfilled by the board.

4. Adjust the f-stops until the meterindicates a correct exposure.

81

5. The approximate lux level at thewhite board:

f4 - 50 luxf5.6 - 100 luxf8 - 200 luxfll - 400 luxf16 - 800 lux

f22 - 1600 lux

Data obtained from Canadian ConservationCenter Notes 2/5, Using a Camera toMeasure Light Levels.

91

APPENDIX II.LOW-UV FLUORESCENT LAMPS

ColorTemp.(° K)

UVEmission

(uWilumen)

ColorRendering

Index LumenPhillips F40Warm White 29 * 2950 70 53 3100Warm White Special Deluxe 27 2700 33 94 1700Cool White Special Deluxe 37 3850 33 96 1700Color Matching 47 5000 33 98 1830

Westinghouse F40Ultralume 3000 3000 59 85 2900Ultralume 4100 4100 47 85 2900Ultralume 5000 0500 51 85 2900

Verilux F40Full Spectrum VLX/M 6200 47 high 1984

Verd-A- Ray F40North White Fadex 5100 46 91 2740Criticolor Fadex 5700 52 91 2120DSW 30 3000 56 N.A. 1860

SylvaniaIncandescent-Fluorescent 2700 50 90 1600Warm White ** N.A. 45 N.A. 2880Cool White ** N.A. 56 N.A. 2835

General Electric F40Warm White N.A. 75 N.A. 3150Warm White Extra ** N.A. 72 N.A. 3279

N.A. - not availableData obtained from Canadian Conservation Center Technical Bulletin 7, Fluorescent Lamps

** Data presented by William P. Lull, Garrison/Lull, Private Monograph on Selecting FluorescentLamps for UV Output, 1992

* Lull's most recent data (cited above) lists the UV of this bulb at 101 1.4W /lumen, illustrating thatthe UV output of fluorescent lamps can significantly change as the design and coatingsebange. Consequently, before selecting a lamp, the library should assure itself that the UVemissions are acceptable.

82

APPENDIX HI.PESTICIDE APPLICATION RECORD

Building: Date: Time:

Room(s) and Area(s) Treated:

Reason for Application (Insects):

Pesticide Used (Name and Amount of Active Ingredient):

Dilution Uped:

Total Amount Used:

MSDS and Product Label on File:

Method of Application:

Unusual Safety Measures/Requirements:

Any Problems Encountered During Application:

Applicator:

Firm, Address, Telephone Number:

Signed:

83

APPENDIX IV.CHECKLIST OF PRESERVATION CONCERNS

The Library Site

The architect must incorporateadequate protection against naturalevents, such as:

a wind resistant buildingdesign,

seismic resistantconstruction, and

flood resistant designfeatures.

The library must take additionalmeasures to secure the collections inthe event of:

earthquakes (e.g., bracingshelving),

L' hurricanes (e.g., windowprotection),

tornadoes (e.g., limiting roofmounted equipment),

thunderstorms (e.g., adequatelightning protection), and

flooding (e.g., adequatedrainage).

The range of man-induced disastersthat might reasonably occur at thelibrary site should be examinedincluding:

transportation patterns(highways, railroads, airlineflight paths),

nearby industrial,

84

commercial, and supportfacilities (nuclear power plants,fossil fuel plants, electricalsubstations, chemical plants,hazardous waste facilities,penal instit itions, possibleterrorist targets), and

domestic risks and crimestatistics (with special attentionon stranger-against-strangerviolent crime).

The Building Envelope

Select the library site to minimizeexposure to wind, rain, and otherelements.

The orientation of the structureshould maximize thermal efficiencywhile ensuring the preservation of thecollection.

Smaller, heavyweight structures aremore efficient and better atmaintaining a preservationenvironment than large, open, andlightweight construction.

Wasted spaces should be eliminatedand design minima should be carefullyjustified.

The building envelope must be madeas airtight as possible, with specialattention given to doors and windows.

The architect should conductthermal evaluations of his designoptions at any early stage in theplanning process.

The building envelope should be

designed with other preservationconcerns in mind.

During renovations the libraryshould instruct its architect to exploreways of improving the thermalefficiency of the structure. Evensimple methods, such as caulking andrepair, may help save funds and reduceHVAC costs.

The Library Interior

The library must be designed andconstructed using materials thatminimize sources of formaldehyde.This should include:

using plywoods that havephenol-formaldehyde glue andavoiding all ureaformaldehyde formulations,

avoiding the use of particleboard in construction,

carefully selecting adhesivesto minimize or eliminate off -gassing, and

selecting finishings,particularly carpets (if used),to minimize or eliminate off -gassing.

'The library should emphasize the useof safe acrylic and carefully selectedlatex paints, avoiding the use of all oil-based paints.

Moisture-borne or latex-typepolyurethanes are acceptable. Oil-modified urethanes should not be used.

The use of wood shelving is stronglydiscouraged. There are no adequatemeans of making wooden shelvingtotally safe for collections.

Enamelled steel is acceptable if themanufacturer has ensured adequatebaking of the paint. If any odor is

85

detected from the shelving or cabinets,it is likely off - gassing and should notbe accepted for use with collections.

For special collections the librarymay wish to use powder-coated steel,which provides a more consistentlyinert coating.

Fabrics for use in displays should becarefully chosen to minimize thecollection's exposure to corrosivematerial.

Test for the presence of off - gassingif in doubt.

Flooring

A major preservation considerationwith all floor coverings is the off -gassing of the adhesives. Consequentlyadhesives must be selected which arenon-toxic, contain low levels of VOCs,and are quick- curing.

A good choice for floor covering isvinyl. This is best applied in a roll,rather than as tiles, since there will befewer cracks to collect soil.

Carpet is a poor preservation choicefor a variety of reasons. If it must beused, a synthetic is preferred to woolfor pest control reasons.

Floor loading is an importantengineering concern of all libraryconstruction. It is important to plan forexpansion or re-arrangement ofcollection areas prior to the design of anew library. It is also important toconsider whether compact, high -density storage is likely to be used inyour facility since these storagesystems require significantly greaterstructural load bearing capacity.

Roofing

95

Either a pitched or flat roof may besafely used with libraries, if:

it is appropriately designedwith attention to materials,serviceability, and drainage,

it is correctly installed, and

it is adequately maintained.

Where a pitched roof is used,appropriate roofing materials include:

slate and tile,

metal shingles,

metal sheet materials,

premium grade asphaltfiberglass shingles.

Where a "flat" roof is used, eithermembrane or built-up roofing isappropriate, although the designermust pay particular attention to:

drainage,

transmission of water vaporand formation of condensation,and

resistance to the wearanticipated.

Although quality assurance andquality control are significantthroughout the construction trades,they are especially essential in theselection and installation of the roofingmaterial.

Libraries must emphasize thenecessity of on-going inspection andmaintenance of roofing systems.

Libraries should request the architectperform life cycle costs andcost/benefit analyses of variousroofing options.

86

Electrical and Plumbing Concerns

All electrical work is to comply withthe latest edition of the NationalElectrical Code, as well as any localcodes.

Ground Fault Circuit Interruptersmust be included throughout thebuilding (including the stack areas) andappropriately labeled.

O The main electrical servicedisconnect must be located within easyaccess to the staff and clearly marked.Instructions must be provided for boththe main disconnect and the disconnectof individual circuits. All circuitbreakers must be clearly labeled.

The libm-y should investigate needsfor emergency power. All essentialelectrical safety requirements outlinedin tUe Life Safety Code (National FireProtection Association 101) as well asfire and security systems must bepowered by batteries or batteries andinvertor. The library should explorethe need for an uninterruptable powersupply for computers. This will allowan appropriate shutdown of computersin the event of a power outage.

O During renovations all electricaltransformers and capacitors must bechecked for the presence of PCBs.Plans for removal should be made andPCB containing equipment must belabeled.

The institution should investigate theneed for surge and lightr ngprotection.

Libraries should avoid below groundconstruction because of possible waterand moisture problems. If suchconstruction is unavoidable, the librarymust require waterproofing anddrainage of below grade levels.

The landscape must be graded away

from the building, with at least a 1%slope. Adequate stormwater drainsmust be provided, especially for lowareas and the areas around doors.

Water lines should not be run abovecollection/stack areas. If unavoidable,the designer must incorporateappropriate mitigating techniques.

Overhead piping, if used, mustalways be adequately insulated (with avapor barrier) to prevent condensation.

El If the use of sump pumps isnecessary, provisions must be madeshould the pump or electrical powerfail.

All water disconnects must be clearlymarked and the staff must understandhow to turn the water off in the eventof an emergency.

Drains, with backwater valves, mustbe installed wherever there is a waterhazard in the building. These areasinclude bathrooms, janitorial closets,mechanical rooms, and hot water tankareas.

Sewer cleanouts must never belocated in stack or collection areas.

1:1 All spigots, both outside and inpublic areas of the building (such asbathrooms), must be vandal proof.

Lighting

1:1 Remember that low-intensity lightof high quality (avoiding glare,providing good color rendition, andhaving appropriate contrast) is alwaysbetter than high-intensity light of poorquality.

Light levels of 550 lux represent theupper limit for virtually all libraryactivities and levels of about 250 luxhave been shown to be adequate forstack areas and general reading rooms.

87

Closed stacks can have lower lightintensities and lights should be wiredso that lighting on individual rangescan be independently controlled.Where a number of lights are (or mustbe) controlled by one switch it ispossible to install an automatic timer(for both incandescent and fluorescentfixtures) that will allow staff time toobtain the necessary item but willautomatically turn off the lights.

While daylight can be used, w:precautions, for ambient lighting, itmust never be used for task lighting.Daylight must also be avoided incollection areas.

Skylights and clerestory windows arepoor preservation choices sincecondensation is likely to be a problemand cleaning is very difficult.

It is helpful to create transition zonesbetween bright, ambient lighted publicareas and stack areas with lowerillumination.

Tungsten- halogen and various HIDlamps are not good preservationchoices since they produce significantUV levels and relatively hightemperatures.

Both filtering and use of low-UVlamps offer adequate and appropriateoptions to reduce the UV levelsassociated with fluorescent lighting.The choice is dependent upon localcost and maintenance considerations.

Special collection areas must receiveeven more careful attention to thedamaging effects of light than generalcollection areas.

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

The library should be carefullydesigned to minimize the costs ofenvironmental controls (see section onThe Building Envelope for additional

details).

O Reasonable levels of environmentalcontrol, designed to protect collections,include:

Relative humidity, perhapsthe most important designcriteria, should be between45% and 55% throughout theyear, with seasonal fluctuationsbetween the two extremes anddaily fluctuations held to 3%.This can be achieved onlythrough the design Andinstallation of re-heat coils fordehumidification and cleansteam generation forhumidification.

Temperature should bebetween 65° and 75° Fthroughout the year, allowingseasonal fluctuations betweenthe two extremes, and holdingdaily fluctuations to ± 5° F.Libraries should avoid the useof "air economizers," whichmake adequate humiditycontrol impossible.

Controls should beelectronic, not pneumatic.

Filtration should minimallybe to 50% ASHRAE Dust SpotEfficiency.

Gaseous pollutants such asoxides of nitrogen, sulfurdioxide, and ozone, should becarefully controlled.

Ventilation should beadequate throughout thefacility to avoid stagnant airpockets. Libraries should avoidvariable air volume (VAV)systems, since such systemscannot adequately filter the airor maintain an adequate airflow throughout the library.

88

Ideally, these environmentalparameters should apply to allcollection areas of the facility. If this isnot possible, they must minimally beapplied to special collections, such aslocal history and/or microforms.

Fire Protection

All new library constructionmust ensure fire-safe designby incorporating:

O fire-resistent or fire-proofconstruction,

compartmentalizationthrough the use of fire wallsand fire doors,

elimination of all verticaldraft conditions or carefulinstallation of fire stops on allfloors, and

0 minimum use of combustiblematerials in interior finishingsand furnishings.

Libraries must also ensure the fireprotection of associated buildings, suchas parking garages.

O Portable fire extinguishers are animportant feature of good fireprotection. The best all roundextinguisher is the multipurpose (A, B,C) dry chemical stored pressureextinguisher. A good size is the10A:60B:C.

Portable Halon 1211 extinguishersmay be used to protect computersystems, expensive equipment,microfilm, and special collections.

Unless required by the localjurisdiction having authority, firehoses for occupant use should beavoided in favor of optimal firedetection and suppression systems.

Either ionization or photoelectricsmoke detectors are appropriate forlibraries. Flame and heat detectors,while useful in special circumstances,should be generally avoided.

All libraries must have a signallingsystem that connects the detectors witheither the fire department or amonitoring firm. The exclusive use oflocal alarms must be avoided since itprovides only very limited protectionto the institution.

The best possible fire control systemfor libraries is the automatic sprinkler.Sprinkler systems must be installed in100% of all new library construction orrenovations. Libraries would be welladvised to consider retrofit installationof sprinkler systems in existingbuildings. Installations can use either:

wet pipe or preactionsystems, and

on-off or cycling sprinklerheads.

While a total flooding Halon 1301system is appropriate for some specialcollections, its use should be carefullyconsidered in light of cost,environmental consequences, anddegree of protection needed. Typicallyit is better to provide the entire facilitywith sprinkler protection than toprovide one room with Halonprotection.

Designing for Pest Control

Require the removal of all organicmaterial (such as stumps) from thebuilding site. The contractor must notadd any organic materials to any fillwhich might be necessary at the site.

Provide a thorough termite pre-treatment, ensuring compliance withgood practice requirements, especiallythe use of adequate termiticide and

89

correct application.

Avoid all wood-ground contact. Allwood forms must be removed orspecial provisions must be made toensure they do not ser'e as a source oftermite infestation.

Build pests out, paying particularattention to:

the fit of exterior doors,

use of 20 mesh screen for allopenable windows,

O. caulking all exterior joints,cracks, crevices, window anddoor frames, and penetrations,

screening all air intake ventsand weep holes with thesmallest screen allowable,

minimizing eaves and ledges,or alternatively, making theminhospitable for birds,

sealing all cracks, crevices,and penetrations on interiorwalls,

treating interior wall voidswith a long- lasting, lowtoxicity pesticide, such as silicaaerogel,

limiting, correcting, orplanning for high moistureareas,

avoiding the use of plantswithin the library and carefullycontrolling their use inlandscaping,

ensuring control of water,channeling it away from thebuilding.

Install HVAC systems to maintainappropriate levels of Kemperature and

humidity, reducing pest populations.

Design the library to minimizehousekeeping. In particular:

eliminate "dust catchers,"

use rounded corners andjoints between floors, walls,and ceilings,

minimize the use of carpet infavor of hard floors,

if carpeting is specified, alsospecify vacuums capable ofadequate cleaning (highefficiency filters, strongmotors).

Eliminate or control food in thefacility.

Locate the dumpster or other trashreceptacles away from the library.

Library Security

Install emergency exits with panicalarms. These should be monitored atsome constantly-attended location,such as the circulation desk.

Establish a floor plan that allows thestaff to keep visual contact withpatrons and high use areas.

Consider establishing a patron lockerarea for personal belongings in order toreduce theft opportunities.

Ensure that adequate, affordablephotocopies are conveniently available.Remember that all copiers must bevented outside.

Determine the appropriate level ofelectronic security within the library,including:

magnetic switches on doorsand openable windows,

90

vibration or shock sensors onglass doors and windows,

motion detectors (ultrasonic,passive infrared, ormicrowave) within the library,

special detection devices forexhibition areas or cases,

panic buttons and duresssignal capability.

Use only reputable security firmswith a proven record of reliability inyour community.

O All exterior doors, and interior doorsto sensitive areas, must have highquality, pick resistent dead bolt locks.Keyways must be proprietary orregionally proprietary. Key blanksmust not be available through locallocksmiths, hardware stores, or othersuppliers. Uncoded room numbersmust not be stamped on keys.

Landscaping must incorporatesecurity concerns, such as:

avoiding the use ofshrubbery around the building,near doors, and by windows,

avoiding the use oflandscape features that couldbe used to vandalize thebuilding or gain entry,

providing adequate lightingaround the building and inparking areas

Both landscape and interior designmust ensure that the staff have clearsight lines to the entrance and buildingapproaches.

If a vault is necessary, the libraryshould clearly specify what it is to beused for and what it is intended toprotect against.

lUu

Book Returns

Book returns for patrons in thelibrary should consist of designatedcounter or shelf areas, not "drops."

Avoid the use of both book returnboxes and book returns attached to thebuilding.

If a book return must be used, anexterior return box is safer than anintegral building return.

If an integral building book return isused, take special precautions,including:

isolation of the book returnfrom the rest of the library toprevent the spread of insectsand other noxious materials,

installation of fire detectionand fire suppression systems,and

installation a floor drain.

In any type of book return drop,minimize the distance the book mustfall.

Landscaping

Trees can be appropriate plantingsfor libraries, but they must be plante..where they will not overhang thebuilding when they mature.

Shrubs and organic mulch preferablywill not be used immediately adjacent

91

to the structure. If shrubbery is used, itmust be non - flowering and low. Mulchmust be inorganic, such as riverpebbles or pea gravel.

Soaker lines or drip irrigation shouldbe used adjacent to the library, ratherthan sprinklers. If sprinklers must beused, they must direct water awayfrom the building.

Avoid live plants in the librarybuilding.

The site will be graded so that thereis a slope away from the librarybuilding. In addition, adequatestormwater drains will be installed.

Outdoor spigots must be secured atall times.

Exterior lighting should be just whatis essential for security. It must not belocated on the library building.Lighting should use high pressuresodium lamps.

Trash dumpsters and lawnmaintenance supplies must be placedaway from the library building.

Fountains and waterfalls should notbe used. If they are used, they must bedesigned to avoid any possible waterdamage to collections.

All landscape features, such as bikeracks, tables, and benches, should bevandalism proof.

1 01

Acoustical design featurescarpeting 22ceiling tiles 22Eckel Industries 22

Adhesivesplywood 18

Air qualitytesting 19

Alabamatornadoes 11

Atriums 14Backwater preventer valve 12, 32Book returns 63Building design

cost considerations 66minimal maintenance 67

Building envelopeair leakage 14design features 13energy conservation 43insulation 14, 15thermal barrier 14

Building programsdeveoping 69feasibility studies 69

Carpetingacoustical qualities 22adhesives 22and foimaldehyde 16and insects 22and mold 22cleaning 22, 57preservation concerns 22underlay 22

Compact shelvingand fire safety 18floor loads 18

Condensation 14, 32Construction

and collections 74architects, function of 70as built plans 72bidding 72badget 71design stages 70design team, selecting 70design team supervision 73HVAC concerns 74inspections 73punch list 73, 74selecting proposals 73specifications 72substantial completion 73

Disaster planning 7Ductwork

cleaning 40

INDEX

92

Earthquakes 9and light fixtures 10

and shelving 10and suspended ceilings 10California 9design codes 10seismic design 10structural damage 10

Electrical serviceBest Power Technology 29circuit breakers 29disconnect 29emergency power 29ground-fault circuit-interrupter 29lightning protection 30PCBs 29surge protection 30uninterruptable power supplies 29

Fabrics 19Fire detection

alarms SOselection of system 50signalling systems 50ratings 48

Fire extinguishersHalon 1211 49locations 48ratings 48selection 48

Fire safetybuilding design 46compartmentalization of buildings 47detection equipment 49elevators 47extinguishes 48fire hoses 49fire resistant design 46fire threat 46garage design 48interior finishes 47selection of detectors 50smoke control 47sprinkler systems 50vertical openings in buildings 47

Floods 11backwater preventer valve 12, 32FEMA requirements 12need for ground fault circuit

interrupter 12Floor coverings 21

carpet 22concrete 21cork 22linoleum 22rubber 22tile/brick/stone 21vinyl 21

102

wood 21Floor loads

compact shelving 23Florida

hurricanes 8thunderstorms 11, 30tornadoes 11

Formaldehydeaffects 16

Air Quality Research 19and HVAC 40Assay Technology 19levels 16plywood 17reduction of 17release 16sorbants 17sources 16testing 19ventilation 17

Formic acid 16Georgia

earthquakes 9hurricanes 8thunderstorms 30

Halonflooding systems 51portable extinguishers 49

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioningair handlers 41ASHRAE human comfort zone 40boiler 41chiller 41constant/variable air volume 41controls 41design based on humidity 41direct digital controls 42direct refrigeration 41duct insulation 42ductwork 40energy management systems 42energy savings 42filtration 42monitoring 74outside air make-up 41purging 74reheat coils 42stable test period 74system documentation 73test and balance reports 73

Housekeepingfood and pests 57

Hurricane clips 9Hurricane shutters 9Hurricanes 8

and building design 9resistant construction 8Standard Building Code 9

Integrated pest managementand building programs 55construction practices 56cultural modifications 55

93

environmental controls, importance of57

housekeeping 57mechanical modifications 55, 56

Kentuckyparticulates 38

Landscapingadjacent to library 64choice of plants 64drainage 65grading plan 31lighting concerns 65live plants, in library 65

Light fixturesand earthquakes 10

Lighting 33ambient 35Crawford UV monitor 34damage 34electric lamp 34electromagnetic spectrum 33energy conservation 43exterior 65fluorescent 34, 36high-intensity discharge (HID) 34incandescent 34low-UV fluorescentmeasurement 33mercury vapor 34preservation levels 35, 36sodium vapor 34task 35tungsten 34ultraviolet light 33UV damage 35UV filtration 36

Louisianapart iculates 38

Maintenanceand pest control 57

Man-made hazards 12North Carolina

earthquakes 9tornadoes 11

Paints and Coatings 17Acrylic paints 17Crystal Shield by Pace Industries 17Hipo by Murco Wall Products 17latex paints 17Oil-based paints 17polyurethanes 17Safccoat by AFM 17

37

Pestsand food 57and integrated pest management 53environmental controls, importance of

57of books 54pesticides 55termite treatments 55

Plumbing serviceand mold 30

1 n3

BEST.COPY AVAILABLE

Ceiling Guard by Dor len Products 31disconnect valve 32double-walled pipes 31pipes 31routing of pipes 31sewer cleanouts 32spigots 32sump pumps 32water alarms 31Water Alert by Dorlen Products 31

Polychlorinated biphenyl 29Preservation

alternative approaches 4and architects 5and maintenance 67construction procedures 69construction, concerns during 74costs of 66need for 3planning 4public library response 3

Preservation environmentair make-up 41alternative designs 45and pest control 57cleaning 44constant air volume system, need for

41dehumidificatir::. 42ductwork 40energy conservation 43filtration 42, 44fluctuations 39humidification 42humidity control 43, 44interim improvements 44monitoring 74need for 38patron comfort 38recommendations 39, 40variable air volume system, problems

with 41ventilation 39

Risk assessmentsmulti-hazard ratings 8vulnerability 7

Roofing 24asphalt shingles 25built-up 27drainage 24, 27drains 27elastomeric 26failures 24, 26flat 24, 26formed metal 26gutters 27insulation 15

membrane 26metal 25selection 24shingles 25single ply 26

94

types 25Security

ABLOY Security Locks 61and exhibits 61and landscaping 62and the building envelope 15closed-circuit television 60door locks 61emergency exit control 60guidelines 59internal arrangements 60intrusion systeMs 60key control 61magnetic strips 59motion detectors 61panic alarms 61risk assessments 59theft deterrence 60

Shelvingand earthquakes 10baked enamel finish 18

compact 23compact design 18Delta Design, Ltd. 18heat-cured acrylic resin 18

installation 18powder coat finish 18

protection from water 31SpaceSaver Corporation 18specifications 18

Stacor Corporation 18Site location

selecting 7Smoking

monitoring 40regulation of 40

South Carolinaearthquakes 9hurricanes 8thunderstorms 11, 30tornadoes 11

Sprinklers, fireeffectiveness of 50head designs 51types 51

Suspended ceilingsand earthquakes 10

Texashurricanes 8thunderstorms 11tornadoes 11

Thunderstorms 11wind-resistive design 11

Tornadoes I I

wind resistive design 11

Ultraviolet lightabsorbing material 35damage 35filtration 36sources 34

Water damageand landscaping 65

1(

and roofing 24building envelope 14floods 11

Waterproofing 30French drains 30Owens Corning Tuff-N-Dri system 30

Wood productsformaldehyde levels 16

95

105

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Trinkley is the Director of Chicora Foundation, Inc., a public, non-profitorganization that provides library, museum, and archive preservation consulting. Based in Columbia,Chicora has nearly a decade of experience working on a variety of technical preservation issues. Dr.Trinkley received his Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.He has conducted many seminars, short courses, and workshops on conservation and preservationissues, including integrated pest management, fire safety, environmental monitoring and control, andbuilding for preservation. Dr. Trinkley has also consulted with institutions throughout the Southeast.He is an associate member of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works,a member of the Palmetto Archives, Libraries, and Museums Council on Preservation, the AmericanAssociation of Museums, the Southeastern Museum Conference, and the South Carolina Federationof Museums.

96