: : Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary : :

New Library and Campus Center 

AMBS's Library and Campus Center has achieved the Gold Level of LEED® certification.  It nearly triples the seminary's existing library space with 25,250 square feet on the main level and a 6,250 square-foot basement.

Ron Ringenberg, AMBS Vice President for Advancement Administration, says, "The reason we chose DJ as our contractor for this building was their enthusiasm and interest in building "green" - following the LEED® guidelines.  Since this is the first LEED® project in Northern Indiana, it was a learning experience for everyone including us at AMBS.  Throughout the whole project, DJ has been a helpful partner in achieving our goals for a successful build."

Several features were incorporated into the Library and Campus Center to make it "green":

Photos

• Rain gardens reduce run-off and pollution
• Motion sensing lights conserve energy
• Porous concrete used on sidewalks reduces run-off and acts as a filter.
• Intake lines from geothermal wells bring water to the geothermal ground source heat pump.
• Low VOC carpet greatly reduces the emission of harmful toxins.

Site

• Restoring construction site with native prairie grasses which don't require regular mowing
• Stormwater retention on site; water from roof treated in rain gardens.
• Porous pavers for sidewalks

Water

• Landscaping with native plants; no need for irrigation
• Waterless urinals and dual flush toilets

Energy

• Triple pane windows and extra cellulose insulation
• Clerestory windows bring daylight to interior; large exterior windows
• Photosensors and occupancy sensors on electric lights; task lighting at desk top
• Geothermal ground source heat pump; no natural gas used in the building

Materials

• Over 90% of construction waste diverted from landfill through recycling
• Reusing previous shelving and other library furnishings; purchasing used shelving
• High recycled content in cellulose insulation, concrete, carpet, ceramic tile
• Over 40% of materials from within 200 miles of site to reduce hauling
• Cherry trim and paneling manufactured at AMBS from trees harvested in Elkhart County

Indoor environmental quality

• Carbon dioxide monitoring to only introduce outside air as needed
• Low levels of volatile organic compounds in adhesives, paint, and carpet
• Urea-formaldehyde-free plywood and substrates for veneers, doors
• Temperature and humidity controls to preserve library collections
• Daylight and views in over 90% of spaces
• Green housekeeping practices

Signage, brochures, and tours

• First LEED-certified building in northern Indiana
• Participant in the Elkhart County Sustainable Living Tour, April 2007
• Have hosted numerous groups interested in green building design

Participants and team members

• Primera
• 7Group
• The Troyer Group