Nestled in the heart of Borrego Springs, the
Borrego Springs Library is more than just a place for books—it's a shining example of sustainable design and environmental stewardship. In a community that deeply values its unique desert ecosystem, the library stands as a testament to what can be achieved when innovative design meets community needs.
Things to do at the Borrego Springs Public Library: Upcoming Events
LEED Gold Certification: A Commitment to Excellence
In March 2020, the Borrego Springs Library earned the prestigious LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, a mark of excellence in sustainable building practices. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the most widely recognized green building certification in the world. The library scored 61 points across various sustainability categories, including energy efficiency, water use reduction, and sustainable site development.
Zero Net Energy: Leading by Example
One of the standout features of the Borrego Springs Library is its status as a Zero Net Energy (ZNE) building. This means the library produces as much energy as it consumes, an impressive feat in the harsh climate of the Anza-Borrego Desert.
The building's energy efficiency is achieved through a combination of design elements, such as
solar shading,
daylight harvesting, and a
highly durable building envelope. On-site renewable energy is generated by
solar panels, ensuring that the library remains energy-neutral year-round.
The library also serves as a
community cool zone, providing a safe, air-conditioned environment during extreme heat events. This dual role as both a library and an emergency resource adds another layer of complexity to maintaining its ZNE status, requiring careful energy modeling and planning.
Embodied Carbon and Sustainable Construction
The library’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond energy efficiency. The building was constructed using embodied carbon techniques, which reduce the overall carbon footprint by selecting materials that require less energy to produce and transport. For instance, the use of
low-carbon concrete and timber
minimizes the environmental impact of the construction process.
A Community-Centered Design
The design of the Borrego Springs Library was heavily influenced by community input, ensuring that the building would meet the needs and values of Borrego Springs residents. The library is not just a place to read; it’s a community hub that offers meeting spaces, educational programs, and a connection to the desert’s unique environment.
The library’s design even incorporates elements inspired by the celestial skies, such as a galaxy plaza at the entrance, making it a true reflection of the local culture and landscape.
EV Charger at Borrego Springs Public Library
The Borrego Springs Library is a hub for learning and community events, and it also supports eco-friendly transportation with an on-site EV charging station. This
ChargePoint station offers affordable charging at $0.25 per kWh, with free parking. The 6.48 kW station features a J-1772 connector, making it compatible with most electric vehicles.
To learn more about the Borrego Springs Public Library and its significance as a community resource,
click here.
What is LEED Certification?
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognized certification system that promotes sustainable building practices. It evaluates the impact of buildings on the environment, aiming to reduce resource usage, waste, and emissions while improving energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
LEED certification assesses key areas such as:
- Water use and efficiency
- Greenhouse gas emissions
- Indoor air quality
- Use of recycled materials
- Resource utilization
Buildings earn points based on their performance in these areas, with a total of 110 points available. The certification levels are:
- LEED Certified: 40-49 points
- LEED Silver: 50-59 points
- LEED Gold: 60-79 points
- LEED Platinum: 80+ points
To learn more about the specific points and categories, visit
USGBC's points system.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
December 1, 2025
A Musical Celebration at BSPAC
November 30, 2025
A Charlie Brown Christmas piano concert with pianist, arranger, and conductor Steve Hunter at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church on December 21 at 3 PM.
November 26, 2025
Cindie Horn – Textile Artist & Slow Fashion Creator Meet one of the makers featured at Desert Lovers & Co. Cindie Horn has spent years working with fabric, guided by an appreciation for slow fashion and craftsmanship built on time, patience, and intention. She sources and collects textiles gathered over the years and transforms them into pieces that feel personal, functional, and thoughtfully made. Her work at Desert Lovers & Co includes upcycled and embellished denim jackets, colorful phone and tablet pillows, and her popular fabric cactus sculptures. Each piece reflects her eye for detail and her interest in experimenting with textures, patterns, and new techniques. Cindie enjoys challenging herself creatively and exploring fresh ideas through fabric. Her belief that handmade items add comfort, character, and warmth to everyday life comes through clearly in her designs. Desert Lovers & Co is proud to feature the work of Cindie Horn both in the shop and online at DesertLoversandCo.com . Visit Soon: 583 Palm Canyon Dr. Suite D, Borrego Springs, CA, United States, 92004
November 24, 2025
Enter the 20th Anniversary Photo Contest Anza-Borrego Foundation’s Photo Contest celebrates two decades of photography that helps reveal what most visitors never see. This milestone year honors the images that have captured the Park’s hidden moments—fleeting blooms, rare wildlife, dramatic weather, and the quiet details across 650,000 acres of desert terrain. Below is a simple overview of what participants can expect this year. For full details and to submit your photos, visit ABF’s website. Why the Contest Matters Showcases what is often missed in the Park’s vast, remote landscapes Highlights the biodiversity and resilience of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Helps people connect more deeply with the land through visual storytelling Why Photography Supports Conservation 65% of people are visual learners Visual content increases engagement by 94% Images are processed 60,000x faster than text—one photo can say what pages cannot Awards & Recognition (Full descriptions available on the ABF website) Best in Show: Ribbon + resort stay + dinner + ABF program Category Winners: Ribbons + ABF membership Honorable Mention & People’s Choice: Ribbon + gallery display Winning photos will be exhibited at the Borrego Art Institute in early 2026 2026 Categories People Enjoying the Park Animals of Anza-Borrego Desert Black & White Landscapes Nightscapes Plants New: Youth Category (high school and younger) Cell phone photographs accepted in all categories How to Enter (Round 1 Overview) Submit up to 10 photos Upload JPEG files under 5 MB Photos from any year are eligible All online entries considered for People’s Choice Judges select finalists to move to Round 2 (print submission) Deadline Submit your photos by December 10, 2025. Learn more, read the full rules, and enter online: theabf.org/experience-anza-borrego/photo-contest/ Learn more and enter at: theabf.org/experience-anza-borrego/photo-contest/ Learn More About Borrego Springs
November 24, 2025
A full month of creative workshops, hands-on learning, and holiday projects December at the Borrego Art Institute brings a full schedule of classes for all ages and skill levels—from drawing and sculpture to kids’ art, yarn-making, and an olive oil tasting at the ArtPark Café. Whether you’re a resident, seasonal visitor, or weekend explorer, Studio West offers plenty of ways to create, learn, and enjoy the season.
November 23, 2025
The Thanksgiving Eve Service brought the community together at Borrego Springs Community UMC for an evening centered on gratitude, reflection, and the shared bonds that carry Borrego Springs through each year. Guided by local clergy, and volunteers, the service offered a mix of music, readings, and stories that highlighted both faith and community care. Coming Together in Gratitude Pastor Mateo Mamea opened the service with a call to give thanks, setting the tone for an evening of reflection. Rev. Michael Plekon followed with the opening prayer, encouraging gratitude for daily blessings and the natural world that surrounds Borrego Springs. Readings, Music, and Reflections Scripture readings were shared by Cmdr. Dale Jones and Rev. David Madsen, with additional participation from Ellen Fitzpatrick. Pastor Mamea offered the homily, focusing on gratitude and living with intention. Music added depth and warmth to the service. Jennie and Gary Edwards performed “For the Beauty of the Earth,” and the combined choir, directed by Jinny Perrin, contributed an uplifting anthem. Voices From the Community Martha offered stories about the Borrego Ministers Association—how it began, how it supports people in crisis, and why its work matters. Her remarks helped newcomers and longtime residents better understand the BMA’s role in meeting urgent needs throughout the year. Supporting Local Needs An offering was collected to support the ongoing work of the Borrego Ministers Association , which provides emergency assistance and support services for individuals and families in Borrego Springs.
November 4, 2025
Music, fun, and community at BAMA The Borrego Springs Music Festival invites adults to Thursdays for Grown-Ups, a weekly gathering of music, learning, and good company. Starting in Nov, enjoy adult-only classes: Ukulele Group: 3–4 PM Guitar Workshop: 4–5 PM Jam Session: 5–7 PM Sharpen your skills, meet fellow musicians, and play together in a relaxed, encouraging space. All are welcome! Location: BAMA (Borrego Art and Music Association) Please note: BAMA is a family-friendly venue — no alcohol or drugs permitted. Learn More About Borrego Springs
November 2, 2025
Live Music in Borrego Springs: Year-Round Sounds in the Desert
October 28, 2025
Celebrate CRC’s two years of community service in Borrego Springs with food, wine, and good company on Nov. 22 from 4–7 PM.
October 27, 2025
Exhibition at The Gallery at The Palms
October 24, 2025
Host Your Special Occasion Looking for a unique desert venue? Yellow Woman Ranch offers stunning sunsets, open desert views, and versatile spaces — perfect for weddings, quinceañeras, and special celebrations. Call 760-399-7159 or visit Yellow Woman Ranch to learn more.
September 28, 2025
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