LEED Certified Libraries of the County of Los Angeles Public Library

The County of Los Angeles is committed to greener spaces and environment. Explore each section to learn about the sustainable practices incorporated in our library buildings. In January 2007, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors adopted rules to require that all new County buildings greater than 10,000 square feet and funded on or after February 15, 2007 be certified LEED Silver, Gold or Platinum.

What is LEED Certification?

LEED certification is the recognized standard for measuring building sustainability. Achieving LEED certification demonstrates the building project as truly “green.” The LEED rating system, administered by the U.S. Green Building Council, is designed to promote design and construction practices that reduce the building’s negative environmental impacts. LEED certification, which includes a rigorous third-party commissioning process, offers four certification levels for new construction and major renovation projects – Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum – that correspond to the number of credits accrued in five categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality. Learn more about the LEED rating system on the U.S. Green Building Council website.

Diamond Bar Library LEED Gold

Sustainable Sites

A cool roof with a high solar reflectance index minimizes the heat gain for the building. Drought tolerant planting and an efficient irrigation controller reduce the potable water consumption. Photovoltaic panels on the roof provide renewable energy.

Water Efficiency

Water efficient plumbing fixtures, including low-flow toilets and faucets, reduce the potable water consumption by more than 35%.

Energy & Atmosphere

Low wattage light fixtures, including LEDs and fluorescents, reduce the connected lighting power density below code allowed levels. ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances reduce power consumption.

Materials & Resources

More than 75% of the construction waste was recycled, diverting it from landfills. A percentage of the construction materials were manufactured from recycled products to reduce the demand on virgin materials. A percentage of the construction materials were manufactured within 500 miles of the building to reduce the demand of transportation on natural resources.

Indoor Environmental Quality

Adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings and flooring systems are low VOC emitting materials to reduce indoor air contaminants. Designed ventilation rates are above minimum standards to improve indoor air quality.

Innovation & Design

A Green Housekeeping plan with specified policies and materials is established to reduce indoor air contaminants.

LEED Libraries

Read more about the library's other LEED Buildings.