Oley E. Rooker Library on Otter Creek Court

Each branch library in the Central Arkansas Library System is uniquely designed for its neighborhood, and the Oley E. Rooker Branch reflects its location, culture, and the community’s interest in sustainability.  Sited along Stagecoach Road near the main entrance to Otter Creek, the new library will provide a memorable landmark for the community and is the first LEED certified facility for CALS.  The design incorporates many sustainable strategies, including a geothermal heating and cooling system that takes advantage of energy naturally found on-site; efficient landscaping practices, such as catch basins to clean and infiltrate water on-site; and specification of both regional and rapidly renewable materials.  Local building materials include stone, copper, wood, and glass.  Laminated wood beams form a large, sheltering roof while transparent glass walls and large windows not only welcome passersby by allowing them to see activity within, but also provide a connection between interior spaces and the outdoors.  The indoor environment is enhanced through views to the outside and abundant natural light.  Cork and stone floors, wood, warm colors, and oversized hanging “lamps” along the perimeter add to the warm, inviting interior.