American Bureau of Shipping Information Commons Serves as Model for Libraries

Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) dedicates the opening of its newest academic building, the American Bureau of Shipping Information Commons, which serves as a model for future generation libraries.

The $23 million facility extends beyond the traditional library concept to encompass learning environments or “spaces” emphasizing collaboration for study, research and training supported by the latest information technology advances. The information commons approach promises to make the facility the heart of the Academy’s rigorous program which combines typical four-year college academic courses with specialized regimental training to prepare men and women for maritime careers on land and at sea.

“Academic libraries have undergone a revolution in mission,” says RADM Richard G. Gurnon, President, MMA. “This new facility has transformed the MMA library into a place that serves the needs of future generation, technology-savvy students. It is a welcoming place on campus for our student-centered community of scholars.”

The vision for this type of learning environment was shared by one of the world’s leading classification societies, the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), which provided the initial donation of $3 million. ABS establishes standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities. This donation to MMA is part of a wider, far-reaching campaign on the part of ABS to fund infrastructure on the campuses of major US-based maritime institutions. The aim has been to be the spark for maritime education renewal throughout the US and the world.

“A library is the soul of any campus,” says Robert D. Somerville, ABS Chairman. “This facility redefines the learning environment and will contribute to the academic success of Academy students for generations to come. On behalf of the ABS Board of Directors and our 4,000 employees around the world we are proud to be associated with this academic endeavor.”

The American Bureau of Shipping Information Commons is a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certified building. It will house the Academic, Learning and Writing Resource Centers supported by multimedia SMART classrooms, media production facilities, an Information Technology Service Desk to assist cadets with computer and technology troubleshooting as well as a full mission ship’s 360 degree Bridge Simulator.

Along with the facility’s multi-faceted uses, the building was constructed with 100 percent recycled steel, 20 percent recycled concrete and 40 percent recycled insulation. The building is cooled and heated by a geothermal system along with chilled beam technology. Additional light sensors and natural light from skylights are strategically located throughout the building to reduce the need for artificial lighting when possible. The building is furnished with water conserving fixtures and outside landscaping will rely on water captured from the roof to irrigate landscaping and plants adjacent to the building.

“Since our Academy and ABS share the same values and commitment to excellence in the maritime industry, we are proud to have their name grace this new building,” adds Gurnon.

Distinguished guests in attendance at the dedication ceremony include: Robert D. Somerville, ABS Chairman; Therese Murray, Senate President, The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Carole Cornelison, Commissioner, State of Massachusetts’ Division of Capital Asset Management (DCAM); RADM Richard G. Gurnon, MMA President; and Paul Kelly, Chairman of the MMA Board of Trustees.