County Partnerships Help Libraries Power Up Sustainability

Frederick County, MD - Recent collaboration by the Frederick County Public Libraries, the Division of Public Works, and the Division of Energy and Environment, demonstrates the power of public spaces to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for our community. Through recent projects at Thurmont, Urbana, and Middletown libraries, Frederick County Government is reducing its energy use and costs, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and making sustainable choices more visible and accessible to the public.

At Thurmont and Urbana Regional libraries, lighting was replaced with energy-efficient LED fixtures, dramatically reducing electricity consumption while improving indoor light quality. The upgrades were partially funded through $63,561 in utility rebates and a $67,036 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration. The project is expected to save $61,100 in energy and maintenance costs each year and provide a measurable environmental impact-cutting 377,668 pounds of CO₂ emissions annually.

At Middletown Branch Library, Frederick County installed its first-ever public-use electric vehicle charging station. The two Level 2 chargers provide residents with new options for charging EVs while spending time at the library. Since transportation accounts for nearly half of the County's greenhouse gas emissions, expanding EV infrastructure is a critical step in building a cleaner future. Libraries, with their accessibility and community-centered role, are a natural fit for these stations-offering both convenience and an opportunity for residents to learn more about sustainable transportation.

These projects showcase how small, practical upgrades in everyday places can generate measurable benefits for the environment, save money, and perhaps inspire residents to take similar actions at home.

"We're glad to partner with the County's Division of Energy and Environment in their efforts to invest in clean energy and transportation infrastructure. Even modest changes can make a difference for facilities and our community," said James Kelly, Frederick County Public Libraries Director.

"Libraries are cornerstones of our community, and they are now helping us model how eco-action can also provide economic benefits," added Rayla Bellis, DEE Climate and Energy Manager.

To learn more about how Frederick County Government is lowering its costs and climate impacts at the same time, as well as contributing to community sustainability, stop by the Green Fest at the Thurmont Regional Library on Saturday, April 18, from 10am to 2pm. County staff will also lead a "Power Down Your Electric Bill" program that day at 2pm inside the library's community room.For more information, visit the Division of Energy and Environment's website at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DEE and follow their work @SustainableFCMD on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.

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