Seismic Retrofitting, Energy Efficiency Upgrades, and Functional Redevelopment of the Cosenza Civic Library, Including Digitalization for Enhanced Accessibility and User Experience
The seismic retrofitting, energy efficiency upgrading, and functional redevelopment of the Cosenza Civic Library involved a building complex of outstanding architectural and cultural significance. The project was designed to combine the preservation of the historic heritage with the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and technological innovation. The interventions were developed to enhance the building’s seismic performance, improve its energy efficiency, and redevelop its interior spaces, in full compliance with the Italian Minimum Environmental Criteria (CAM) and the principles of sustainability applied throughout the entire life cycle of the project. The design approach, based on Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the ITACA Protocol, enabled the integrated management of design and construction activities, ensuring effective coordination between restoration works, structural interventions, and building systems, with particular attention to environmental comfort and the removal of both physical and perceptual barriers. The project also included the computerization and digitization of the library’s collections, together with the reorganization of consultation and archive areas, developed in collaboration with library science specialists. These interventions transformed the library into a fully accessible and functional facility, reinforcing its role as a center for heritage preservation, research, and cultural engagement. The project represents an integrated intervention in which historic preservation, structural and energy performance improvements, and digital innovation work together to revitalize one of the city’s most important cultural landmarks. The project was carried out by Cooprogetti, within a Temporary Association of Companies (ATI) together with SAB S.r.l. and Architect Maurizio De Luca, who served as Construction Director (Direttore dei Lavori).
