In 2016, Missoula County, Montana voted to create a new, state-of-the-art library and community center to accommodate its growing population and replace the original 1970 public library.
Project architects designed the new Missoula Public Library following three guiding principles: the new library should be long-lasting, flexible, and sustainable. Following these principles, the library would need to be equipped with an energy-saving air distribution system and heated with geothermal energy.
The planned facility was 106,675 square feet of usable space across five levels, providing room to more than double the library’s physical collection, tripling capacity for computer access and faster internet, and expanding public gathering spaces and meeting rooms. A raised access floor was chosen to manage electrical distribution and support a more effective, energy-efficient HVAC system. By combining UFAD with ground-source cooling, the design enhanced energy efficiency and ensured long-term sustainability.
During the discovery process, AirFixture offered UFAD education, world-class products and flexible planning, and long-term solutions.
“Working with the AirFixture team gave us the opportunity to learn so much about the advantages of a UFAD solution to heating and cooling. After this project, we have implemented RAF and UFAD in a number of other projects to maximize energy efficiency, design flexibility and ensure long-term sustainability for building owners.” - Eric Webber, Vice President and Bend Operations Manager, Morrison-Maierle
Working closely with project architects and engineers, AirFixture created a 100% custom solution to maximize long-term flexibility, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort while adhering to the client’s budget.
Architects and project partners rely on AirFixture for insight throughout the design and construction process—from overall MEP cabling strategies and installation support to detailed feedback on UFAD and RAF layouts, engineering drawings, and REVIT files—to ensurea smooth, integrated design process.
At the Missoula Public Library, AirFixture delivered 91 CLWMIT perimeter trench heating units and 19 SoHo hydronic, electric and combination heating and cooling units. To ensure even airflow across the building’s five floors, over 230 MIT3-CS air diffuser terminals were installed.
SoHo units on the library’s first floor in the vestibules and stairs bring heating into critical, high-use zones, including the front entrance and public working spaces. To accommodate a prominent water exhibit on the second floor, AirFixture provided a fan-powered box ducted to perimeter units. This solution allowed for easy maintenance of the perimeter CLWMIT units in the event of water entering the system.
The CLWMIT perimeter trench heaters provide protection around the building’s exterior, creating a barrier of tempered air that insulates the building’s interior. This solution allows for maximized energy efficiency, ensuring minimal heat loss/gain from the perimeter and allowing the diffusers to effectively manage occupant comfort.
Education and project support from AirFixture ensured a smooth and successful installation and implementation. The products offer energy-efficient heating, cooling and distribution throughout the entire building, maximizing energy savings, long-term sustainability and occupant comfort.
The Missoula Public Library now offers a diverse array of spaces designed to cater to a wide range of needs. From dedicated children's areas with interactive learning spaces like the Imaginarium and Artbox, to quiet study rooms and expansive meeting spaces equipped with modern technology, the library provides environments for both individual and group activities. There are also unique spaces such as a MakerSpace, a Demonstration Kitchen, and the Tony Veazey Montana Room, which houses historical archives. Furthermore, the library provides spaces for digital media creation with the MCAT studio, and podcasting rooms. This variety ensures that the library serves as a dynamic community hub for learning, creativity, and connection.
In 2022, the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) World Congress in Dublin, Ireland, named the new Missoula Public Library the Public Library of 2022—the first American library to earn this recognition. It was also recognized in 2023 with the American Library Association’s Library Building Award and again in 2024 with the IFLA Green Library Award.
Want to see the Library? Check it out here.
Videographer: Snack Media Group
Lead Architect & Interior Designer: MSR Design
Special thanks to Missoula Public Library for video coordination.