Green Building Information
In 2009, the AMBS Library was awarded Gold Certification by the United States Green Building Council in their LEED certification program (Leadeship in Energy and Environmental Design). Gold certification is the second highest of four LEED certification levels.
Some of the features included in the building are:
- A geothermal ground-source heating and cooling system uses the temperature of the earth to heat and cool the building; no natural gas is used.
- Triple-pane windows and efficient insulation reduce energy needed for heating and cooling.
- Carefully designed windows, including north-facing clerestories use daylight effectively and reduce use of electricity for interior lighting.
- Photocells dim electric lights according to how much daylight is available.
- Building materials come from the region rather than being transported long distances. Cherry trees, already harvested from a nearby area, were used for 7,041 board feet of trim and 500 square yards of paneling.
- Sustainable building materials that can be replenished readily, such as wood, were chosen instead of petroleum-based plastics.
- Rain gardens next to the building retain water runoff from the roof rather than sending it through city storm drains. Deep-rooted, drought-resistant native plants cleanse the water as it returns to the aquifer below.
- Restored prairie grasses near the building minimize time and fuel spent on mowing. Experience gained in this prairie experiment will guide planning to restore more campus land to natural sustainability.
- Paints, adhesives and fabrics that do not emit fumes keep the interior atmosphere healthy.
We are achieving long-term benefits, including reducing the use of natural resources, enhancing comfort and health of all who use the library, controlling operating costs and restoring native features to the environment.
‘LEED’ and related logo is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used by permission.
The LEED® ( Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings.
