Renovated and Expanded AACC Andrew G. Truxal Library Was Designed Around Student Needs

Students and members of the public coming into the newly renovated and expanded Andrew G. Truxal Library at Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) will find more places to study – both alone or with a group, more technology available for group study and tutoring sessions, enhanced quiet areas and easier access to reference assistance and student support services.

The library, which re-opened Aug. 27 for the first day of fall classes, was designed after working with focus groups of students, faculty and staff who requested more quiet areas, more individual computers and increased seating and study space, especially for collaborative work. Some of the features include:

• 224 computers overall for student and public use – a 72 percent increase;
• 20 enclosed rooms equipped with technology for group study – an 85 percent increase;
• Larger enclosed silent and quiet areas;
• An expanded reference area;
• Seating for 800 in a variety of arrangements. 

In addition, the library contains new space and additional technology for student support services.

AACC also worked with Ewing Cole Architects and contractor Hess Construction and Engineering Services to design a sustainable building with the goal of receiving a silver-level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating. The school has applied for that rating. Some highlights of that effort include:

• Reduction of water use by at least 30 percent and water efficient landscaping practices;
• Optimizing energy use by 40 percent;
• Reduction of construction waste by at least 75 percent;
• The use of recycled content;
• A bio-retention pond (rain garden);
• A lighting system which adjusts light levels based on the amount of natural light available and the occupants within a space;
• Part of the glass glazing system acting as a sunshade;
• A green roof.

The original library was built in 1967 as one of the first three buildings on AACC’s Arnold campus. It has received only minor updates since then. Construction began in spring 2011 and it opened on time with construction savings of $2 million below budget, for a total cost of $19.6 million.

For information about the library, call 410-777-2211, email library@aacc.edu or visit www.aacc.edu/library.