Tenley-Friendship Library Opened January 2011

Photo of Tenley ExteriorThe new Tenley-Friendship Library, at 4450 Wisconsin Ave. NW, is open.

The two-story library features:

  • Separate spaces for adults, teens and children
  • Children’s program room
  • Space for 80,000 books, CDs, DVDs and other library materials
  • Comfortable seating for 200 customers
  • 32 Mac computers and free Wi-Fi Internet access
  • A large programming room for 100 people
  • Two conference rooms for 14 people
  • Four quiet study rooms for one to two people
  • Environmentally sustainable design
  • Parking for 7 vehicles

The new library was designed by The Freelon Group.  The library earned LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) "Gold" Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Features include:

  • Vegetative green roof
  • Extensive use of daylighting
  • Sunscreens to filter direct sunlight
  • Energy efficient lighting including occupancy sensors
  • Energy efficient heating and cooling systems
  • low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets
  • Flooring and countertops with recycled content
  • Bike racks
  • Low-maintenance, drought-resistant landscaping



Photo of Green Rood
Green roof reduces storm water run-off
Atrium and Skylights
Skylight and atrium bring light to both levels
Reading Tables by Windows
Windows and sunscreens bring in natural light  


(photo credit: Mark Herboth)