Proving there is always a way to be more environmentally friendly, The Toledo-Lucas County Public Library has just reopened its Reynolds
Corners Branch after an extreme green renovation project.
   The Reynolds Corners Branch was reconstructed under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) System.  Pending certification at the end of this year, Reynolds Corners Branch could be the first public library in the state of Ohio to be LEED certified.
   The branch followed a set of green guidelines during construction and after occupancy.  Rather than demolishing and rebuilding the structure, the library completed a renovation as its first LEED requirement. Ninety percent of the materials not reused from the existing building were recycled, and 50 percent of the wood used during the renovation came from certified renewable forests. Most of the additional materials came from within 500 miles of Toledo, reducing  transportation related emissions.
    Inside the library takes advantage of natural light through energy efficient glass and skylights.  The library also uses low flow water fixtures and materials that don’t emit gases that are harmful to people or the environment.
   The library’s green plan is continuing now that construction is complete.  They offer popular reusable bags for $1.75 and special parking for low emission vehicles, a new strategy being pushed by the United States Green Building Council.
   Since the reconstruction of the Reynolds Corners Branch began, several other libraries have started LEED projects of their own.  Once the Reynolds Corners Branch attains its LEED certification, they will continue to be a leader in  the green arena.