Delmont Public Library

Delmont Eco-Friendly Library

The Delmont Public Library was started in 1934. The library has changed its location and services to meet a changing public need. Growing from 219 square feet in 1952 to 450 square feet in 1974 to over 2,749 in 2004.  In 2015, planning and fund raising for a new 4,150 square foot library was started.  The West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund (WPPSEF) committed $40,000 to the new library construction.  Those monies were used to defray the cost of a 38.5 kW roof-mounted solar pv array, a six-well geothermal heating/ cooling system, LED lighting, and building insulation for the building envelop.  The new Delmont Public Library officially opened on January 23, 2021.  The library boasts an eco-friendly design, a community garden, large conference room, neighborhood porch and electric car charging sites.  The $1.2M new library received strong support from the community, local business, foundations, and private citizens.

Impact

348 contributors supported the project (ranging from $400,000 to $2.00)

38.5 kW roof-mounted solar PV array

Six geothermal heating/ cooling wells

Rainwater harvesting

Expanded community and children’s education space

Two EV charging stations