Lighting
Occupancy Sensors
Many of the spaces, such as washrooms and offices, have motion detectors (now commonly called occupancy sensors). When a person enters, the lights are turned on, then after a person leaves and no motion is detected, the lights will turn off. This saves a substantial amount of electricity each year.
LED and low energy lighting
Throughout the building, including the exterior street lamps, are LED lights as well as low power consuming light tubes over the book stacks. Not only do these save electricity they also provide a natural light.
Daylighting
The library takes advantage of natural light. As luck would have it, the original building was built almost on a north – south axis. This allows the majority of windows and seating areas to face west and south, capturing the sun for light.
There are seven skylights throughout the library providing interior lighting, the largest one with operating louvered windows just over the People's Place mural. The patio reading area will be a favorite spot on those long cold winter days. A great place to meet your friends or just relax with a good book.
High performance glazing
The library uses a unique glass product made in Cape Breton by Advanced Glazings Ltd. called Solera. You can see this translucent glass throughout the library. Much thicker than an ordinary window this glazing has the same insulating value as most solid walls, which improves the overall efficiency of the building. If you look closely the glass contains a fibrous material which not only reduces the harsh mid-day sun but projects light further into the building.
