At the library we strive to find innovative solutions that encourage long-term sustainability and responsible stewardship. We are committed to protecting and conserving the environment today and for future generations.
Read the library's policy on Sustainability and the Environment.
Sustainable Libraries Initiative
The library achieved Green Business Partnership (GBP) certification in April 2021. As a certified green business, the library models best green practices and works to improve the environment for future generations. Our staff evaluated seven areas of operations related to environmental impact, including energy, waste management, transportation, land use and water.
GBP certification was the first step in achieving Sustainable Library Initiative (SLI) certification. The SLI is an award-winning project to create leadership and provide tools to mobilize libraries to think and act sustainably. The ultimate goal is to ensure our communities thrive, can bounce back from disruption, and are infused with new and better life for everyone.
Library staff submitted information about library programs and services related to the Triple Bottom Line definition of sustainability: environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable. The review panel reported that the library's "thoughtful and environmentally conscious building design, careful consideration of your communities’ needs in your programming, and collaboration with other community organizations was highlighted throughout the action items you submitted."
The library created a final report which was submitted to the SLI. We are thrilled to report that the library was awarded Sustainable Libraries certification on August 20, 2021.
LEED Platinum
We’re LEEDing the way!
Longwood Public Library’s expanded and transformed building, which re-opened on October 9, 2015, was built with energy-efficient technology and designed for an environmentally friendly, community-centered facility. The building’s many sustainable features have earned the facility LEED® Platinum Certification, the highest level of recognition awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally-recognized certification system administered by the USGBC. It has four levels of achievement, ranging from Certified to Platinum. The USGBC designated Longwood Public Library as LEED Platinum following a series of evaluations, resulting in 85 points, five more than required for Platinum status.
“When community members participated in the design process, they made it clear that energy-efficient and sustainable features were important to them. The Library Board of Trustees agreed and is committed to long-term sustainability. We’re proud to offer our community a comfortable, appealing and healthy library, with a small environmental impact,” says Lisa Jacobs, Library Director.
Sustainable features contributing to the library’s Platinum recognition include:
- Lighting control system which takes advantage of maximized daylighting
- Triple-glazed windows to minimize heat loss and glare
- Spray foam insulation resulting in exceptional thermal comfort
- Reduction in water use including no permanent irrigation system
- High-efficiency mechanical systems
- Restored native habitats around the perimeter of the property
- Rooftop solar array to reduce power consumption from the grid
- Recycling and green housekeeping practices
