Philadelphia Free Library Central Branch- Green Roof

The Central Library is a four story building located on Logan Cirle at 19th and Vine Street in Philadelphia. Philadelphia's first municipal green roof is approximately 5,000sf divided into two areas which flank either side of the central roof terrace. The green roof installation was completed at a cost of $ 200,000. The green roof is an extensive design with some semi-intensive areas in the 6” to 12” soil depth range with over 5,400 sedum plantings. The summer roof temperature prior to the green roof installation was recorded as 128 degrees on the ballasted areas to 170 degrees on the exposed black EPDM – the green roof surface would average approximately 30-40 degrees less than the ballasted area. In addition the roof adds insulation value which helps to reduce the heating and cooling loads of the large reading rooms below and to mitigate the storm water run off, while also adding the beauty of the green plantings and an educational resource for all. The Library roof terrace is accessible from the 4th floor of the central library Skyline room. A beautiful view of central Philadelphia can be seen from the terrace while also allowing one access to the green roof. The roof plantings are fully grown in and grown up. Replacement of only a few plantings was required over the initial first year and minimal weeding and watering for maintenance. The project was initiated by Fredda Lippes, RA LEED AP, Dept. of Public Property and Mayor's Office of Sustainability for The City of Philadelphia. Various public events are held in the skyline room which overlooks the green roof. The schedule of events is posted on the Free Library web site. Private booking of the terrace and skyline room are also available thru the Free Library.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103

5000ft.

Fredda Lippes tel. 215 683 3656 email : Fredda.Lippes@Phila.Gov