Visitacion Valley Virtual Tour

San Francisco Public Library demonstrates its strong commitment to the environment with the grand opening of the new Visitacion Valley Branch Library on Saturday, July 30th, the sixth San Francisco branch library built to gold certification standards under the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system.

Among the green features at the Visitacion Valley Branch Library:

Clean and green

We use environmentally sound products and practices for cleaning this Library.

Room for recycling

An easily accessible area is dedicated for recycling.

Good wood

We use regionally sourced and rapidly renewable materials, such as Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood.

On target

"Commissioning" is a testing process that verifies that all the building’s mechanical and electrical systems are installed, calibrated and performing efficiently.

The Visitacion Valley Branch Library renovation serves as a model of green construction practices, including:

Waste not

We recycled or salvaged at least 75% of the construction waste when building this library.

Breathe easier

The paints, adhesives and sealants in this building contain only low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC), reducing the amount of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, potentially irritating or harmful.

Pollution prevention

We controlled soil erosion, waterway sedimentation and airborne dust generation during construction activities.

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Night lights

We avoid using unneeded lights at night to reduce light pollution.

Transit friendly

This library is conveniently located near public transportation.

Taming the temperature

We use roofing and exterior paving materials that reduce the heat island effect (thermal gradient differences between developed and natural areas). This minimizes our impact on the microclimate and on wildlife habitat.

Let the sun shine in

Windows provide natural light and reduce the use of electricity.

A fresh idea

Windows that open allow for natural ventilation, improve indoor air quality and eliminate the need for artificial air conditioning.

Pedal Power

Bicycle racks are provided, encouraging library visitors to use this environmental and health conscious mode of transportation.

Climate controls

Zero chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-based refrigerants are used in the building's heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems.

A bright idea

High performance lighting fixtures use less electricity and need to be replaced less frequently.

Breathe deeply...

You can because this wood composite is made without formaldehyde (which gives off harmful fumes that can cause breathing problems).

Breathe easier

The paints, adhesives and sealants in this building contain only low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC), reducing odorous or harmful indoor air contaminants.

Flourishing flooring

Made from natural ingredients including flax seeds, sawdust and pine resin, this linoleum comes primarily from renewable resources and is biodegradable.

Lowering the flow

Efficient fixtures such as low-flow faucets reduce water usage by 45%.