Join us for an in-depth tour of the Austin Central Library, one of the city’s most celebrated civic spaces and a national model for sustainable design and green infrastructure. Opened in 2017 in the redeveloped Seaholm EcoDistrict, this LEED Platinum-certified building combines innovative environmental strategies with a welcoming, nature-connected design.
This guided tour will take participants through both public and behind-the-scenes spaces—including staff and operational areas—to highlight how the building functions as a living example of One Water principles, energy efficiency, and sustainable resource use. From rooftop solar panels and green roofs to native landscaping and light-maximizing design, every feature was carefully planned to support environmental and community goals.
We’ll take a close look at the library’s rainwater and A/C condensate harvesting system, which reuses non-potable water for irrigation and toilet flushing—saving over 1.5 million gallons of potable water annually. Participants will learn what’s worked, what’s evolved, and what lessons are guiding the City of Austin’s future green building projects.
Support is provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.
