The Sutton Library/Community Resource Center, completed in 2012, is a 6,250 SF facility designed to house approximately 13,600 volumes. It is situated just north of Sutton’s Alpine Historical Park, sharing its parking lot and water well. By sharing these facilities, the project minimized construction costs, reduced the need for on-site parking, and attracted visitors to both the library and the park. The park features several historic buildings, coal mining equipment, an Athabascan winter lodge, and cultural displays.
The building features sustainable materials and technologies, including insulated concrete forms, spray-applied cellulose insulation, and energy-efficient lighting. The roof and soffits were designed to reduce ice damage, and the heating and ventilation systems use oil-fueled boilers, radiant concrete slabs, and DDC controls. A compressed gas-driven water-mist fire suppression system protects the building. The fiber cement siding, window, door trim, and other details were designed to match the park’s facilities, creating a sustainable building that respects the local culture and history.
The Sutton Library/Community Resource Center serves as a valuable resource for the community, providing various services and materials to support learning and personal growth. With its sustainable design and historical connections to the park, the center is an asset to the community, attracting visitors and promoting a sense of pride and identity for the residents of Sutton.