Manchester Public Library and the Systems Powering a Net Zero Future for the Community

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What does the library of the future look like? In Manchester, Connecticut, it looks like a 75,000-square-foot civic landmark powered by geothermal wells, solar panels, and a bold commitment to net zero design. The new Manchester Public Library is set to become one of the most energy-efficient civic buildings in the state.

CES is proud to be a longtime partner to the Town of Manchester, having first participated in a comprehensive feasibility study for the existing historic Mary Cheney Library. Now, in collaboration with design architect HBM Architects LLC and architect of record Friar Architecture Inc., CES is delivering full MEP/FP engineering services for the new building, ensuring that every system supports a net zero vision while keeping comfort, functionality, and flexibility at the core.

In this post, we’re diving into the sustainable infrastructure and engineering that will make Manchester’s new library a model for civic design—built not just for today, but for generations to come.

From Feasibility to Future-Ready: A Trusted Engineering Partnership

Originally built in 1937, the Mary Cheney Library has long been a cornerstone of Manchester’s Main Street Historic District. But with aging infrastructure and a growing population, town leaders asked a forward-thinking question: How can we build a library that serves the Manchester of tomorrow?

CES worked with HBM and Friar Architecture to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate renovation options and assess five alternative sites. The team’s analysis pointed to a new location along Main Street — one that could support a future-ready, energy-efficient public building aligned with the town’s sustainability goals.

Thanks to strong community support and the collaborative planning efforts led by HBM and Friar Architecture, voters approved a $39 million referendum in 2022. That decision unlocked additional state and federal funding paving the way for an inclusive and innovative civic facility.

Engineering a Net Zero Civic Building

The new Manchester Public Library is designed to achieve net zero energy performance—producing as much energy as it consumes annually. CES provided full MEP/FP engineering services, integrating advanced systems that reduce energy demand, generate renewable power, and store energy on-site.

Highlights include:

• 40 geothermal wells to provide efficient, all-electric heating and cooling with no reliance on fossil fuels
• A 200 kW rooftop solar PV system, turning the library into a power plant for its own operations
• An 840 kWh battery energy storage system (BESS) that stores solar energy for use during peak demand or outages
• A remarkably low Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 19, compared to the national average of over 70 for public buildings’

Together, these systems support the project’s goal of creating a resilient, efficient, and future-proof building. Just as importantly, they support a comfortable, quiet, and welcoming experience for every person who walks through the door.

Systems That Serve the Community

Libraries are more than collections—they’re community hubs. That’s why each system within CES’ scope was designed to help make the building safer, more inclusive, and more usable for all.

Our design includes:

• Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection (MEP/FP) systems
• Exterior lighting for safety and wayfinding across outdoor spaces and pedestrian paths
• Energy-efficient lighting with daylight integration for visual comfort
• High-performance plumbing systems to reduce water use and support long-term conservation

Inside, the library will feature:

• A 2,000-square-foot flexible space for events, rentals, and non-library programming
• Right-sized HVAC zoning for comfort across reading rooms, collaboration zones, and meeting areas

Each system supports an inclusive, high-performance space that evolves with the community’s needs.

Why It Matters

This project is more than a new building—it’s a model for sustainable civic design. As part of a broader net zero strategy led by the design team, CES’ MEP engineering supports a public facility that reduces operational costs, increases resilience, and creates welcoming environments for all.

For CES, this project represents the continuation of a trusted relationship with the Town of Manchester and an opportunity to shape a building that will serve 59,000 residents for decades to come. From early feasibility studies through detailed systems design, we’re proud to support the creation of this library.

Expected to open its doors in 2026, the Manchester Public Library will not only house stories—it will tell one of its own: a story of sustainability, innovation, and the power of thoughtful engineering to help build stronger, more connected communities.

Click here to explore more of our sustainable projects and municipal work!