Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy commended the eco-friendliness of the Madison Public Library’s redesign of its downtown branch at a press event Friday.
The updated library re-opened Sept. 21, and McCarthy said it contributes well to Madison Mayor Paul Soglin’s prosperous effort to make Madison more environmentally conscious.
For instance, McCarthy praised Sustain Dane, a not-for-profit organization that promotes sustainability in Dane County, for overseeing the Mpower Business ChaMpions program. The EPA and Madison Gas and Electric co-fund the Mpower program, which helps businesses become more environmentally friendly in regards to “energy efficiency, waste reduction, transportation and supply chain efficiency, employee wellness and community outreach,” according to an Mpower leaflet.
Since 2009, more than 70 Madison businesses and organizations have collectively reduced their Carbon footprints by 21,500 tons and saved $916,000 annually. McCarthy said the program can be an example for others.
“The EPA would like to be a partner with every one of the communities who will do exactly what you do, to embrace these ideas and turn them into opportunities for you to have more sustainable, rich, healthy communities,” she said.
Determined not to underscore Madison’s Carbon Dioxide reduction, McCarthy said, “We are not talking ... about small efforts, we are talking about small steps to a great effort.” She called for cooperation from all parties, in all communities, so climate change can be seriously addressed.
Following McCarthy’s statement, Library Director Greg Mickells led a tour of the library. Complete with iPads, study rooms, flat screen TVs, a media room and art gallery, Madison’s Central Library boasts a diverse set of information technology. Mickells emphasized the focus of the library is “to create a sense of community.” He said “We’re offering a lot of programs, a lot of free spaces.”
Madison’s Central Library offers educational programs for all ages, from young readers to those seeking employment, so the library can continue to be the center of primary education in the downtown area.
