Blog 8-Emily Martinez- Joe and Rika Mansueto Library by Helmut Jahn

The Joe and Rika Mansueto Library was another one of my favorite buildings by Helmut Jahn. It serves as the library of the University of Chicago and was named after the alumni Joe and Rika Mansueto. The design of the library allows it to have a capacity of 3.5 million volumes. The building consists of a glass-domed reading room, above high density, closed book stacks that use an Automated Storage and Retrieval System with an average retrieval time of three minutes. This building incorporates solar-control glass overhead, a circular base that supports the foundation walls, and plenty of interior space for studying. The height of the dome at its highest point is 35 feet with a length and width of 240 and  120 feet, respectively. The structural grid-shell of 120 x 240 feet and the insulated glazing satisfies the interior comfort while meditating the exterior conditions. The interior has very clean and modern aesthetics. This building has received numerous awards for its design and unique dome structure.  It is definitely a library I would study in any day!

 

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