Fountaindale Public Library Secures LEED Gold Certification

in has nabbed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

Peggy Danhof, president of the Fountaindale Public Library board, said she and fellow library officials are proud of the designation.

“From the outset of this project, the Fountaindale Public Library board identified being a LEED certified building as a primary objective,” Danhof said in a pess release. “As we worked through the project, it became apparent that the library could apply for a gold rating.”

The Fountaindale Public Library achieved LEED certification for energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies.

By using less energy and water, officials said LEED certified buildings save resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.

LEED certification of the new Fountaindale Public Library was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community.

The library has features such as a green roof which minimizes the building’s impact as a heat island as well as improve the management of storm water runoff and building insulation; premium parking for fuel efficient and low-emission vehicles; bicycle storage facilities to encourage the use of bicycles; water fixtures that contribute to more than 40 percent efficiency; areas designed for the collection of recyclable material; recycled materials in more than 20 percent of total building materials content.

The library building also meets indoor air quality standards, including outdoor air delivery; low-emitting paints; adhesives, carpet systems, wood and agrifiber; indoor chemical and pollutant source control through the use of a green cleaning plan; control of air comfort systems; and control of lighting including the use of daylighting.

Patrons can find information about LEED on the monitors located on each floor of the library and in the Green Guide, available at the Lobby Information Desk.