The University of Virginia’s College at Wise Library

Realizing their previous library could not accommodate expansion of its print collection or properly serve its growing student body, the University of Virginia’s College at Wise sought to create a new library to strengthen its academic mission. The new 66,000 SF building, a symbol for the campus and a spectacular venue for learning, provides 24/7 access to leading-edge study and collaboration spaces available to students, faculty, and community members. This project involved the construction of a seven-story structure in the center of a busy academic campus. Due to the location of the site, excavations of the back wall of the building were over 80’ deep and less than 20’ from adjacent occupied structures. This required the use of a delegated design earth retention system to be in place before the reinforced concrete foundations and walls could be poured. The largest of these concrete walls was 31” thick at the base and extended a height of over 70’ above the foundations, requiring the use of a tower crane for forming and pouring. Despite the complexity of the project and the difficulty of the site logistics, Quesenberry’s was able to complete the project within the owner’s schedule and budget. Winner of the 2016 Tri-Cities AGC Project of the Year, the UVAWise Library serves as a vertical link and positive connector for the campus and surrounding community.