The Jack R. Hunt Library occupies the third and fourth floors of the new student athenaeum at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL. The bird-in-flight–inspired steel and glass building serves as a campus beacon; a central interior spine supports a dynamic 200-foot arching ribbed skylight and surrounding windows to flood the interior with light. Cool modern blue and white finishes, echoing the abundance of sky, set off a variety of seating and work options throughout the 42,000 square foot library. CREDITS: ikon.5 architects, architect; Brad Feinknopf, photo.

Princeton University’s Firestone Library renovation seamlessly blends the original Gothic exterior with fresh, contemporary updates. Housing for special collections, museum-quality exhibition spaces, and specialized research support services have been given updated, harmonious finishes throughout the 430,000 square foot library, with glass walls maximizing natural light in open study and work spaces. Lighting sensors, thermally insulated windows with UV control glazing, chilled beam technology for energy-efficient heating and cooling, a green roof, and LED light fixtures significantly reduce energy use. CREDITS: Shepley Bullfinch, Frederick Fisher and Partners of Los Angeles, architects; ©Shelley M. Szwast, photo.

The Cheryl and Philip Milstein Center for Teaching and Learning at Barnard College spans multiple levels inside and out. Walkways and outdoor terraces connect the Manhattan campus with the 128,000 square foot library’s many spaces and services, accessed via a series of interior staircases that serve as a visual signature throughout. On the exterior, patinated zinc shingles complement the surrounding buildings, and green roofs help reduce trapped heat, cut energy use and storm water runoff, and offer inviting study spaces. CREDITS: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, architect; ©Magda Biernat, photo.