The new 113,000 square foot Library and Classroom facility at the Penn State University Capital College is a beautiful and spacious 3-1/2 story structure. The building is cut into the center of a sloping 6.6 acre site, requiring 14" thick concrete retaining walls on the two below grade sides of the building, while the two remaining sides feature plenty of daylight wall space. The exterior features extensive use of red brick, anodized aluminum windows and curtain walls, and painted standing seam roofing. The interior features a 2 story high art gallery and entrance vestibule with terrazzo tile floors, a large snack lounge, and 3 stories of library, office and classroom space. The library contains 180 computers, 930 data ports, 1.1 million microforms, 263,000 volumes and 1,557 periodical subscriptions.

Location: Middletown, PA

Design Professionals: Hayes Large ArchitectsShepley Bulfinch, Richardson & Abbott

Total SF: 113,000

Value: $ 9.4 million

Awards:  2000 ABC - Keystone Chapter AWARD OF MERIT

Services Provided: General Construction Services

"It has been a pleasure to work with Benchmark on this project. I would not hesitate to recommend this firm to library directors contemplating a simple or complex facility. Thank you for your conscientious and cost-effective implementation of our vision." Harold B. Shill, Ph.D. Director, Capital College Libraries Penn State Harrisburg