Solar Power Projects
Bozeman Public Library
When officials began planning for the new Bozeman Public Library building, they focused their goals on achieving a green building that would feature a host of sustainable features. To meet those goals, the building was designed and constructed to meet the U.S. Green Building Council's green building rating system, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).
The building boasts an array of sustainable strategies that restored the site, conserve water and energy for the long term, and provide a healthy and comfortable environment for patrons and staff. Those strategies include:
ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION
Bicycles are encouraged, public transportation is available, and preferred parking is designated for carpooling and eco-friendly vehicles.
RECYCLING
Staff and patrons are encouraged to recycle white paper, plastic bottles, aluminimn cans, cardboard, newspaper, and magazines. Full Circle Recycling provides the Library with free pickup service.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
A grant from NorthWestern Energy supported the photovoltaic (PV) system, efficient lighting, heating, cooling, and humidification.
ENERGY EFFICIENT BULDING SYSTEMS
Six LEED energy credits were awarded for this building, indicating 27% reduction in energy use over conventional. Waterless urinals, water-saving faucets, and irrigation systems reduce demand on the municipal water system.
CONSTRUCTION WASTE MANAGEMENT
Over 94% of the construction debris was recycled and diverted from the landfill.
GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS
Recycled, non-toxic or non-polluting materials were selected and used wherever possible during construction.
LIGHT POLLUTION REDUCTION
Exterior lighting does not impact night skies and interior lighting does not trespass from the site.
These features earned the building a silver LEED certification. The LEED green building certification program encourages and accelerates global adoption of sustainable green building and development practices through a suite of rating systems that recognize projects that implement strategies for better environmental and health performance.
Learn more about the Bozeman Public Library.