University of California, Berkeley, Bancroft Library

WHAT WE DID

Degenkolb developed a retrofit scheme for the Bancroft Library, using a seismic strengthening approach that protects the contents of the space, as well as its occupants

ABOUT THIS PROJECT

Bancroft Library, originally built in 1949 and housed in the Doe Annex, is a historical archive of irreplaceable books, manuscripts, papers and other documents worth $1 billion. The collection includes Mark Twain papers, ancient Egyptian papyrus fragments, 15th century books and four Shakespeare folios. Degenkolb developed a retrofit scheme for the Bancroft Library, using a seismic strengthening approach that protects the contents of the space, as well as its occupants. Renovation of the interior structure increased usable space and included thoughtful placement of a lateral force resisting system. The retrofit removed interior floors, poured new foundations and reinforced sheer-walls from the basement to the roof. A state-of-the-art HVAC system now maintains precise temperature and humidity to preserve the manuscripts. A security system with 250 closed-circuit cameras and motion sensors protects the valuable volumes. In addition to practical improvements, the renovation recreated the Beaux-Arts rotunda with marble and onyx floors, bronze doors and gold-leaf medallions—a fitting bit of opulence for the library that mirrors the richness of its collection.

Features:

• Seismic strengthening
• Historic preservation
• Beaux-Arts rotunda with marble and onyx floors, bronze doors and gold-leaf medallions
• Security system with 250 closed-circuit cameras and motion sensors protects the valuable volumes

Benefits:

• Ensures the preservation of 600,000 volumes, 60 million manuscript items, 8 million photographs, 43,000 microforms and 23,000 maps
• State-of-the-art HVAC system maintains precise temperature and humidity to preserve the manuscripts
• Acoustical improvements with use of cork flooring in an expanded reading room