St. Cloud Public Library: Structural & Civil Engineering for Modern Learning Facilities

Project Overview

BKBM provided structural and civil engineering services for the new 118,000-square-foot Great River Regional Library and administrative office facility in St. Cloud, MN. The project aimed to deliver an innovative, sustainable public resource for learning, collaboration, and community events.

Project Highlights

  • Innovative Library Design:
    • Two-story structure accommodates extensive library collections and administrative office space for the Great River Regional Library Board.
    • First floor constructed using cast-in-place conventional concrete wide module pan and joist system over a partial basement for maximum durability.
    • Second floor utilized cast-in-place pan and joist construction with post-tensioned girders to support heavy book stacks and library-specific loading needs.
    • Roof structure features steel framing with open web steel bar joists, clerestory daylighting, and multiple roof step locations for abundant natural light and energy efficiency.
  • Sustainable Features:
    • Green roof installed over a portion of the library to promote stormwater management and thermal performance.
    • Rain garden serves as both a landscape and an on-site water management feature.
  • Site and Civil Engineering:
    • Grading, drainage, and layout for a new 225-stall parking lot on the 5.6-acre site.
    • Civil design included sidewalks, a service dock area, and new utility services.
    • Stormwater management incorporates underground storage chambers, a partial green roof, rain garden, and permeable pavers in the boulevard for maximum on-site water retention and infiltration.
    • Full compliance with erosion and sediment control and SWPPP requirements.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM engineered robust structural systems for the unique requirements of library stack loading, natural daylighting, and flexible public space. Civil engineering integrated modern site design, advanced stormwater management, and new utility infrastructure for resilient, sustainable site performance.

Results & Impact

The Great River Regional Library delivers a welcoming, high-performance community resource fostering education, accessibility, and environmental stewardship. BKBM’s integrated engineering solutions provide long-term value, operational flexibility, and a model for modern library and civic campus design.