The Kirkpatrick Library is an advanced information center addressing the University's mission to be leaders in technology integration for teaching and research. While required to support both paper and computer based tasks, the lighting system was challenged in maximizing daylight's functional role, realizing an energy profile below 1.0 w/ft², and enhancing the building's image as technological hub.

A mix of richly detailed limestone, a tradition that unifies campus buildings, stainless steel, and glass defines the central core from which all major components of the library radiate. Perforated panels soften uplight while accent lights reveal the stone's warmth and texture.

The atrium core is daylight illuminated from the clerestory formed at the atrium drum and cupola intersection. Within the well, a conical element of steel pipe and perforated metal both diffuses and redirects daylight into work areas. Model studies helped the team determine the element's shape and perforation density to overcome glare while harvesting useful illumination. At night the volume's ceiling is uplit from concealed asymmetric lighting positions.

Reading rooms rely on uplighting from architectural coves. Concealed linear sources within ceiling ribs provide the vault modulation and accentuate its curvature.

A custom designed suspended armature is the room's ornamental focus. Inspired by technology, the armature houses concealed uplights and includes a central linear source providing direct illumination through a specially designed reflector/lens system. Small sconces trapeze along the armature accenting finish materials.

Lighting's role - functionally, aesthetically and symbolically - is unquestioned in the creation of this focal point on campus. The balance of daylight and electric light sources met client goals for sustainability and proved that a successful marriage of technologies, both old and new, was possible.

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