Our Building
At the ribbon cutting ceremony on April 2, 2010, the Mashpee Library was the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified library on Cape Cod. At that time it was one of only a few LEED certified public libraries in the state.
The sustainable design aligned with the town’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices. In May 2010, the Town of Mashpee was acknowledged as a “Green Community” by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources. It was one of only thirty-five towns to receive this distinction.
“Green” building design focuses on site location, water consumption, energy use, environmental impact, construction waste, choice of building materials, and indoor air quality. Efficient heating and cooling systems as well as alternative energy sources are also design elements. These features create a safer, more comfortable environment for the patrons and the energy efficiencies save on utilities.
The library achieved Silver LEED status by earning credits in six categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation. View the full ratings report here: https://www.usgbc.org/projects/mashpee-public-library?view=overview
The library’s solar energy system helps to fuel the building’s lighting, electricity and air conditioning. Heat is generated by a high-efficiency, gas-fired boiler. An energy recovery system is used to reclaim heat and cooling. Low emitting materials in carpets, paints, and sealants reduce indoor air contaminants. Lights dim or switch off when sufficient ambient light is present or when a space is unoccupied.
Our Grounds
Sustainability is also an important element of our grounds. Outside green features include low-water-consumption plantings, an on-site stormwater management system, including a bioswale garden to filter storm-water runoff, and no outdoor irrigation system.
Bicycle racks are available in front of the building. Parking spaces are marked to encourage carpooling and use of low emission vehicles. Learn more about low emission vehicles and see if your car is approved for LEED parking visit the Greencars.org website and check out the list of LEED Qualified Cars.