When planning a new library building or upgrading an existing one, could you add a green rooftop? A green roof is a multi layer roofing system, an extension of the existing roof, with waterproofing, a root-repellent membrane system, a drainage system, and a multitude of plants that grow on top of a building. Many credits toward LEED Certification (from my previous post) can be earned by building green rooftops.
Green rooftops have been established in Europe for centuries due to both private and public benefits. Private benefits include cost savings (green roofs are estimated to last up to twice as long as conventional roofs AND provide savings on energy heating/cooling costs), sound insulation. (4.7″ layer can reduce sound by 40 decibels), and to provide food production (grow your own food for employees and events). Public benefits include economic (increase green jobs and products markets), improved air quality (reduce airbourne particulates and increase oxygen), temperature regulation (reducing the urban heat island effect), water (natural storm water retention and filtration), social (aesthetics, health, recreation, and horticulture), and preservation of habitat & biodiversity (native flora, fauna, and habitat… and education!).
Libraries could offer events, children’s programing, luncheons, evening concerts, meeting space, and relaxing reading spaces on their green rooftop. For urban libraries, this can be especially welcoming.
For more information visit these Web sites:
Going Green @your library 