Gold Certification for Mayfair Library under the LEED

Press Release

Gold Certification for Mayfair Library under the LEED

Kilkenny County Council Library Service were delighted to be informed that the Mayfair Library has been awarded gold certification under the LEED. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognised programme that recognises buildings that achieve excellence in sustainability, energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.  

“We delighted to receive this award “says County Librarian, Josephine Coyne. “It reflects Kilkenny County Council’s commitment to sustainability and to providing welcoming and innovative environments for the community that care for our planet and very relevant as we just had a very successful week of events and programmes for Sustainable Development Week 2025”.

The Mayfair Library exemplifies sustainable urban regeneration through its adaptive reuse of a historic structure in the heart of Kilkenny City. Some of the Sustainable Design features include: -

• The building boasts a high-performance envelope and advanced HVAC systems, delivering energy performance 42% above standard levels.
• Water-saving fixtures have led to over 40% reduction in indoor water use, monitored through advanced metering systems.
• Environmentally responsible materials were prioritised throughout, with more than 20 products featuring Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
• Internally, 80% of regularly occupied spaces offer quality outdoor views, supporting occupant wellbeing.
• Exterior lighting design meets LEED standards for light pollution reduction, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding urban environment.

Kilkenny County Council Senior Engineer, Tony Lauhoff comments “by repurposing the existing building rather than constructing a new one, Kilkenny County Council significantly reduced the project’s embodied carbon and overall environmental impact thereby showing great leadership in building design and construction”.

LEED gold certification reflects Kilkenny County Council’s dedication to responsible construction while providing a modern sustainable facility for community use.

For more information contact: Josephine Coyne info@kilkennylibrary.ie

Image: Karyn Deegan Mayfair Library Manager, Josephine Coyne County Librarian and Sinéad Holohan Library Assistant accepting the gold certification of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for the Mayfair Library