The new Walpole Public Library surpassed its original plan for achieving LEED Silver and has recently been awarded LEED Gold certification. It is the town's first LEED certified building and just one of a handful of libraries in Massachusetts achieving certification.
The design of the building by LLB Architects makes use of both passive and active sustainable design strategies.
The incorporation of a green roof over the one-story wing creates a better-insulated space for the program area. Natural light floods the interior spaces through the surrounding glazing and skylights and reduces the need for artificial lighting. Highly efficient mechanical and electrical systems help reduce the total energy consumption of the building, resulting in 48% energy cost savings annually versus a traditional building. Plus, the use of a photovoltaic panel system generates over 5% of the building's required energy source.
The Mass. Board of Library Commissioners made the project possible in part from a construction grant. Now, since attending LEED certification, the Walpole library is eligible to receive additional funding through the MBLC's Green Library Incentive.
LLB Architects, formerly Lerner Ladds Bartels, is an architectural practice built upon a distinct project approach defined through comprehensive relationships with our clients. Since our founding in 1936, a commitment to responsive and thoughtful design, integrated project process, and New England practicality have remained our primary principles.