BCPL featured in American Libraries Association Magazine
09/05/2023
Bullitt County Central Library has been recognized for its sustainable leadership
The new Bullitt County Central Library is featured in American Libraries' 2023 Libraries Design Showcase, recognized for its sustainable leadership. The annual showcase celebrates new and renovated libraries that address patron needs in exciting and effective ways. The ALA notes that, 'This year’s selections represent a return to prepandemic normalcy and demonstrate a firm step into the future, with physical spaces designed to draw in communities, celebrate local history, and acknowledge diverse natural environments".
The Central Library supports the users’ emerging differences and competing expectations with comfort and quality, while also positioning the library as a community leader in sustainability. The building features 610 rooftop solar collectors, producing 50% of the library's estimated electrical usage, geothermal energy, and rain gardens demonstrating good stewardship and bringing community support. The Central Library inspires others to embrace new behaviors by promoting sustainable practices and concepts. Four interior courtyards reflecting Aristotle’s elements and the seasons allow the community and staff to enjoy the outdoors while using the entire facility. An abundance of windows combined with white shelving allows a wealth of natural light to filter throughout the 45,000-square-foot facility. A need for accessible space was answered with a variety of sizable study, community, and meeting rooms providing spaces for multiple groups while a large event is underway. Staff from multiple departments and administration are found under one roof, allowing for efficiency and effectiveness. Technology abounds in the Maker and Digital Media Labs, gaming systems, and the Anytime Pickup Locker for easy retrieval of holds. These additions anticipate community needs and assist individuals with learning something new that they can apply to their lives. The youngest in the community fall in love with the large PlaySpace, with its permanent sensory activities and interactive learning stations, creating a place to explore, learn, and enjoy. Learn more about the Central Library here.
The Central Library supports the users’ emerging differences and competing expectations with comfort and quality, while also positioning the library as a community leader in sustainability. The building features 610 rooftop solar collectors, producing 50% of the library's estimated electrical usage, geothermal energy, and rain gardens demonstrating good stewardship and bringing community support. The Central Library inspires others to embrace new behaviors by promoting sustainable practices and concepts. Four interior courtyards reflecting Aristotle’s elements and the seasons allow the community and staff to enjoy the outdoors while using the entire facility. An abundance of windows combined with white shelving allows a wealth of natural light to filter throughout the 45,000-square-foot facility. A need for accessible space was answered with a variety of sizable study, community, and meeting rooms providing spaces for multiple groups while a large event is underway. Staff from multiple departments and administration are found under one roof, allowing for efficiency and effectiveness. Technology abounds in the Maker and Digital Media Labs, gaming systems, and the Anytime Pickup Locker for easy retrieval of holds. These additions anticipate community needs and assist individuals with learning something new that they can apply to their lives. The youngest in the community fall in love with the large PlaySpace, with its permanent sensory activities and interactive learning stations, creating a place to explore, learn, and enjoy. Learn more about the Central Library here.