By Jennifer R Jones | Posted on March 19, 2010 8:00 AM
Newly Opened Battery Park City Public Library Is Making A Green Statement With Its Environmentally Friendly Features, Including Energy-Efficient Systems, Recycled Materials, And LEED Gold
Public Library Sets Green Standard for NYC
It’s a big week for going green--and we don’t just mean because of Saint Patrick’s Day. A new Public Library opened yesterday in Battery Park City, and it will be one of the city’s “greenest” libraries. An all-day series of events celebrated the library’s official opening. The branch, the city’s 88th, incorporates such green technology as energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and lighting; it was built with recycled and renewable materials. The floor? Made from wood scraps from window-frame manufacturing.
The upstairs carpet? Car tires. If you were wondering, the sanitary fixtures are low-flow, which reduce water consumption. It will receive LEED Gold certification from the US Green Building Council. We’re not sure what that means, but doesn’t it sound impressive? The $6.7 million enterprise includes a two-story, 10,000 square-foot library with 24,000 items. It offers three dozen public computers, a large space for various programs, and separate reading areas for kids, teens and adults. Another groovy feature: two self-checkout machines—plus plenty of windows.
Battery Park City's Library Opens Its Doors
It’s a heartening development in an economically troubled time; especially when so many public services are being shuttered. (More good news: This branch is actually open until 8pm Tuesdays and Thursdays.) The library will offer a wide range of classes, workshops, and community programs. It’s located at 175 North End Avenue at Murray Street. Call (212) 790-3499 for more information. Another welcoming fact about the library? It plays host, rising many stories above it, to the city’s newest--and greenest--residential high-rise.
