WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- The Anacostia and Watha T. Daniel/Shaw libraries were awarded LEED Gold for environmentally-friendly design, according to DC Public Library officials.
According to officials, the libraries are the 224th and 225th buildings, in D.C. to be certified as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design buildings, and the 10th and 11th DC government buildings to receive Gold certifications.
The Tenley-Friendship and the Dorothy I. Height/Benning neighborhood libraries received Gold certifications in September.
According to library officials, the Anacostia Neighborhood Library's green features include: a retention pond that reduces storm water runoff into the Anacostia River, energy efficient lighting, low-flow automatic faucets, air hand dryers and low-flow toilets in bathrooms, lots of natural light, and more. The Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Neighborhood Library has a vegetative "green" roof that absorbs and slowly releases water into the city's sewage system. The roof also reduces the amount of ultraviolet radiation in the building.
Officials say that LEED certified buildings save taxpayers money by using less energy and water. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.