The Kilton Public Library opened in July 2010 in West Lebanon. The original fundraising effort began with a gift of 1.3 million dollars given to the library by James and Willena Kilton of West Lebanon. This gift was used to purchase the land where the library now resides. The library was previously known as the West Lebanon Library and had been housed across the street from the current location since 1909.
As the first LEED Gold new library in New Hampshire, the Kilton Public Library is a demonstration of sustainable strategies. Key features include:
- ground source heat pumps
- radiant floor slabs throughout
- automated daylighting controls
- occupancy sensor lighting in bookstacks
The Kilton Library serves as a community hub by providing three meeting rooms that are available to the public including one that seats up to 100 people and is available even when the library is closed. In addition to the meeting rooms, the library offers a gallery space showcasing the works of local artists, a kitchen, an AV system and a beautiful courtyard. The Kilton Library is also the site of twenty-three community garden beds.
