Exposed heavy timber construction and layered natural wood interiors reflect the forested location of Sierra Nevada College near the shores of Lake Tahoe. Nestled into its site, the building conveys the sense of shelter associated with the forest. Inside, a large reading room occupies the main level, with a stair ascending up to the floors of book stacks. Reading alcoves and study lofts perched above the book stacks take advantage of the voluminous, light-filled reading room. The three floors and two mezzanines also contain classrooms, meeting rooms, offices, exhibit space, bookstore and café.