In 2007, a feasibility study for a new branch library in the small rural community of Chrisney, Indiana (pop. 534) revealed that the branch could only be built if it had virtually no operating costs, due to the limited capacity of the local library district for new operating expenditures. That paramount constraint was countered by the enthusiasm of the citizens, who filled the local gym for several planning meetings. This constraint also led to the conclusion that this would have to be a net-zero-energy building or it could not be built. In 2007, the Town of Chrisney obtained a grant from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs to construct a branch of the Lincoln Heritage Public Library system. North Spencer County School Corporation donated an acre of land adjacent to the elementary school outdoor nature lab. With the addition of local fundraising, the community secured funds to erect a 2,400 square foot library for approximately $416,000. The project opened to the public in April 2009. Among a multitude of integrated design systems, certain design features and analyses proved instrumental to achieving the project's ambitious energy goals. In addition to net-zero energy performance (the building actually produced 1,861 more kilowatt-hours than it consumed in its first year), the project proved to be very cost-effective. The building, its mechanical system with geothermal heat pump, its electrical system, the photovoltaics, and all other associated systemic components were constructed and installed for approximately $155 per square foot - significantly below the projected project cost.
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