Small Projects, Big Impact: A remodeling project at the Douglas Branch created a computer lab, as well as a new circulation desk and photocopying area. The project also added lighted shelving for new books and updated interior décor.
Small Projects, Big Impact: Franklin Lakes Public Library renovated the entrance to its children’s room to make it more enticing to children and parents. Oversized books and bright colors bring children’s literature to life.
Green Facilities: An electric elevator only requires power when going up; when coming down, it generates power for the Commons, which contains the library and a number of academic services. Floor-to-ceiling windows minimize the amount of artificial lighting the building requires, while recycled grey water is used to flush toilets.
Green Facilities: The LEED Gold–certified Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library offers extensive daylighting with sunscreens to filter direct sunlight, as well as occupancy sensors to control artificial-light levels. The building has a vegetative green roof, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, low-flow faucets, and dual-flush toilets.
Green Facilities: A closed system collects rainwater and condensate from the air-conditioning system at the Mission Branch to drip-irrigate library grounds. The landscaping features drought-tolerant plants, so no additional water is required for irrigation. The construction project replaced more than 20% of the previously asphalted area with vegetation.
