First eco-friendly “green” library in South L.A. Under Construction

L.A.’s first eco-friendly “green” library is being constructed in South Los Angeles. The new Exposition Park – Mary McLeod Bethune Regional Branch Library is designed to have a minimal impact on the environment. The building’s green features include photovoltaic panels to provide solar power, low-flow plumbing and irrigation to reduce water use by 30%, high-efficiency mechanical and lighting systems to reduce energy consumption by 27%. In addition, recycled materials will comprise at least 10% of the building. Other design measures include:
*Alternative Transportation – A shower and changing room will be provided for library employees who choose to cycle to work.
*Landscape and Exterior Design to Reduce Heat Island – Additional shade trees and less thermal absorbing pavement will reduce heat absorbed by the site during the day and radiated at night. This will help avoid raising the ambient temperature and disturbing the microclimate of the surrounding park.
*Regional materials – At least 10% of the materials used in this project will be from sources within 500 miles of the project site; thus reducing greenhouse gases emitted by transporting materials over greater distances.
In addition, the new facility will provide 50% more space for books, computers, and patrons, than the existing facility.
For further information visit the library’s website, www.lapl.org