The Library works towards developing more green solutions for our operations, building, and grounds to serve as better stewards of our shared environment.
 

We Select Green Companies and Green Building Options

• we choose environmentally sustainable options when possible for all major building projects
• we use permeable pavers instead of asphalt parking surfaces to reduce storm water runoff
• we use a natural gas snow-melt system on our concrete surfaces to evaporate and reduce ice and snow accumulation
• we hire LEED-certified architects to advise us on renovations and facility updates

We Use Green Products and Methods
 

to conserve resources and to promote reuse  

• we recycle about 1,000 pounds of paper, cardboard, metals, glass, aluminum, and plastics per week
• we recycle all fluorescent lamps which includes all of the glass, metal ends, inert gasses and powders in the lamps
• we recycle all print cartridges
• we send out-of-service computer hardware to companies that repurpose or, if necessary, recycle the computer components
• we give withdrawn books to the Friends of the Wilmette Library or to Better World Books to sell or donate
• we make scratch paper out of used paper, reuse binders, folders, envelopes, and double-side printed material

to light the building

• we use LED light fixtures throughout the building
• we update older fluorescent lighting to more energy efficient fixtures

to heat and cool the building

• we maintain four geothermal wells to provide heating and cooling for a portion of our building. The wells circulate water that sheds heat into the earth in the summer, and pulls that same heat out of the earth in the winter
• we use a digitally control heating and air conditioning system which uses outside air for cooling, reduces the temperature of hot water needed for heating, and allows for variable heating/cooling controls for weekdays, weekends, and holidays
• we use glass with heat reflective coating
• we use white roofing materials to deflect exterior heat and promote cooling inside the building

to clean the building

• we stipulate that our cleaning service use green products whenever possible  
• we use vinegar and water for daily cleaning, edible cleansers around food areas, and unbleached paper towels in washrooms
• we use the truck-mount extraction method for cleaning carpets which uses biodegradable, non-toxic, non-allergenic cleaning agents, efficiently extracts ground-in material, and is gentle on carpet fibers resulting in longer-lasting carpeting

to maintain the grounds

• we use completely organic fertilizer/weed/pesticide compounds on all lawn and shrubs
• we mulch the lawn with grass clippings to re-fortify the grass and reduce yard waste 
• we mulch shrubs and borders with wood chips to keep the soil cool, reduce evaporation, and lessen watering
• we use a cordless leaf blower
• we use liquid ice melt rather than salt on snow whenever possible
• we provide recycling bins for glass, plastic and paper products both inside and outside the library building

to furnish the building

• we refurbish or repurpose existing furnishings whenever appropriate
• we purchase furniture made from recycled materials and/or with recyclable components by local companies when possible
• we use low VOC paint products
• we use carpet tile substantially made from recycled content that is recyclable and individually replaceable
• we use recycled or sustainable products to update floor areas or counters and tabletops
   

We Encourage Green Activities

• we offer substantial space for bicycle parking to encourage biking to the library
• we provide public water fountains that support refilling water bottles
• we partner with Go Green Wilmette to help promote environmental awareness, inspire people to take action, and create a more sustainable community