Stony Brook Southampton is home to the first LEED-certified library on Long Island and one of just a handful in the nation. The 30,000-square-foot building achieves LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification through the implementation of green materials, systems, and operational designs.
“We are particularly proud of the fact that we received the hard-to-achieve Gold level of LEED certification,” said Stony Brook Southampton Dean and Vice President Mary Pearl. “LEED buildings are designed to minimize maintenance costs, and beyond that, at least 35 percent of the electricity we will be using will come from renewable sources rather than fossil fuels. By building a low carbon-imprint campus, we truly ‘walk the talk’ of sustainability on the Southampton campus.”
The building itself—its design, construction, furniture, and operation—represents Stony Brook Southampton’s commitment to sustainability. It has stormwater collection for non-potable use; skylights to maximize natural lighting and other energy-efficient lighting systems; materials selected for both durability as well as sustainability and limited environmental impact; and furnishings that meet Forest Stewardship Council and Greenguard certification.
The library space includes two large comfortable seating lounges; a number of group study tables; a student-operated cafe; a projects-based learning enterprise for green business students; and a community center for the Southampton campus. It is home to the campus Writing Center; high-tech group work areas; a computer lab; testing center; flexible classroom space; private group study rooms; a vast selection of electronic resources; the distinguished Pollock-Krasner collection; and resources that reflect the culture and history of the East End of Long Island.
“Consolidation is a key feature of the layout,” said Chief Librarian Darren Chase. “A single multi-purpose reference desk offers all forms of assistance, and tutoring sessions are held right in the library.”
Southampton’s library is linked electronically to the main campus library, and books from main campus can be delivered overnight to Southampton.
The library is intended to serve the community, too. Residents can become a friend of the library and obtain borrowing privileges.
The new environmentally friendly library is open seven days a week.
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