Little Rock, Ark. – Visitors to Bill Clinton’s presidential library probably wouldn’t guess that they’re treading on rubber-tire floors and looking up at soda-can ceilings.
But the library now offers a special “green” tour to feature its environmentally friendly construction.
Before architects started designing, they knew former President Clinton wanted his library on the banks of the Arkansas River to be energy efficient. The final product was the only presidential library to earn an award from the U.S. Green Building Council for environmental design.
The library’s “green tours” are offers one each Saturday and for groups upon request.
David Williams, a library volunteer, gives the tours. He points out that even the library’s location is green.
“This land was a contaminated brownfield,” he said. “We’ve gone from a contaminated piece of property (to one) that now is a city park.”
On the second floor of the library, the 143,000 pounds of glass windows allow in natural light.
Clinton, Williams said, “wanted maximum light, natural light, in here.” But too much light could also damage the library displays, so 258 double-layer panels were placed on the side of the building to filter the light.
Williams points to the black floor, noting that it is mostly recycled tires. The wooden floors are made of bamboo, a rapidly renewable product.
Downstairs, Williams says, “these ceilings are recycled aluminum. About 75 percent (of) aluminum, is recycled soda cans.” And outside there are 336 solar panels on the roof, one of the building’s energy sources.
The parking lot features bicycle racks and three stations where electric cars can recharge. There are also newly planted trees, which will provide shade for parking places.
