The first low carbon library in London is soon to open its doors.
The new Elm Park Library, which scooped a sustainable design and construction award in the Havering Business Awards, will be the borough’s greenest building.
One of the key features is the solar panels which will generate 95 per cent of the electricity used by the library.
The building, which has cost £823,000, will also have a 'living' roof, with sedum moss imbedded into a soil base. The 'living' roof will improve insulation and retain moisture, which along with the planting of some trees and shrubs to shield the building from direct sunlight, will keep it cool in summer without the need for air conditioning.
Exporting electricity
All materials for the timber frame construction are from sustainable sources and high levels of insulation will help keep the library warm in winter. Recycled paper has been used to insulate the walls and double glazing will retain heat.
The roof will prevent flooding in heavy rain as it retains 50 per cent of water and allows it to evaporate. It will also attract birds and insects and will change colour with the season.
Lighting will adjust to incoming light, dimming as it gets brighter outside, and there are plans to export electricity created by the solar panels to the electricity grid when the library is closed.
Cllr Mike Armstrong, Cabinet Member for Housing, Public Protections and Regeneration, said: "Elm Park Library will be a great addition to Havering and its sustainable features show the way forward when it comes to the environment.”
Cllr Andrew Curtin, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities added: "It's exciting to see a new library being built in Havering. Books and a love of reading and learning are absolutely vital for everyone."
May 2009