McKillop Library Electricity Use, Impacts and Solutions

A few weeks ago, our class went on a guided tour of the library, which taught us about what goes on in the library, how resources are used, and basically how the library operates. From our tour, we saw many problem areas that could use improvements. One of these areas is the library’s use of electricity. Our group focused on the computers, printers, copiers, lights, and elevators in the library and how the library could use their electricity more efficiently. We have found that the library is not always using electricity effectively and efficiently. There are lights on when nobody is around and there are computers on when students are not using them. Our group examined the library’s electric bill and the electronics that are using up this energy and money. We have discovered that the Library could have the most immediate and far-reaching reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by switching their electricity to GreenStart electricity. We have also found the library could save money and energy by turning electronics off or using power saving options when available