[PADG:2234] RE: Fire Suppression in Hanging Stacks

["Patricia P. Selinger" <patricia.selinger@xxxxxxx>]

VCU Libraries had sprinkler systems installed in all its buildings 
2002-2003.  In some areas, the sprinkler heads came too close to the 
stacks.  I believe an 18" clearance was required.  Fortunately the 
problem was limited to areas in Special Collections and a small portion 
of the medical stacks.  The Special Collections area relocated to a 
storage space and the vacated space is reused as a work area.  Many of 
the medical journals were sent to storage and the area shifted.  The top 
shelves have been removed from the area.  The company didn't require 
that the stacks be removed.  All departments involved were aware that 
these actions would be necessary before the sprinkler system work 
began.  The sprinkler work was done in phases which helped in planning.

Tom, I remember the UIUC Main Library stacks well and having to duck 
those lights!  My sprinkler relocation experience can't be compared to 
what you'll have to plan for.  

Patricia


> -----Original Message-----
> From: Tom Teper [mailto:tteper@xxxxxxxx] 
> Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2004 11:26 AM
> To: padg@xxxxxxx
> Subject: [PADG:2229] Fire Suppression in Hanging Stacks
>
> All:
>
> UIUC is in the very early stages of planning for the installation of 
> sprinklers throughout non-sprinkled portions of our stacks. The first 
> portion of this space was built in 1927 and the last was completed in
> the 
> mid-1960s. Although its exact form differs throughout the additions, all
> of 
> the shelving is of the hanging, open stack variety. Ceilings are so low
> in 
> some areas that light bulbs present a hazard, so there is concern about 
> creating another series of head-knockers throughout the space. 
> Additionally, there is some early concern about the possibility of 
> requiring pipes and sprinkler heads that run down the length of every
> aisle 
> in order to get adequate coverage in the event of a fire.
>
> I would be interested in hearing from others with (1) active or passive 
> involvement in the planning or designing of sprinkler systems and 
> renovations including sprinklers for this type of space, (2) experience
> at 
> institutions with sprinklers in this type of space, or (3) experience
> with 
> disasters in sprinkled, open stacks that could help inform our planning.
>
> Information received on or off list will be appreciated.
>
> Many thanks,
>
> Tom Teper
>
> Head of Preservation
> University Library
> 246F Main Library
> University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
> 1408 West Gregory Drive
> Urbana, IL      61801
>
> Telephone:      217-244-8755
> Fax:            217-244-4358
>
> ----
>
> "Great minds think alike, and fools seldom differ."
>
>
>  

--

Patricia Palmer Selinger
Head, Preservation Department

Virginia Commonwealth University Libraries
Box 842033
901 Park Avenue
Richmond, VA  23284-2033
patricia.selinger@xxxxxxx
(ph)   804.828.1096
(fax)  804.828.0151