Solar Library Program

A Local Investment in Sustainability

Mondovi Public Library is proud to be a participant in the Winding Rivers Library System Solar Cohort Program, an initiative designed to help member libraries address rising energy costs while investing in long-term, sustainable infrastructure.

Through this program, WRLS is guiding libraries like ours in strengthening facilities with renewable energy solutions that reduce costs and support environmental responsibility.


About the Solar Cohort Program

The Solar Cohort Program helps libraries across the Winding Rivers region explore and implement solar energy and other sustainable improvements.

This work is made possible through partnerships, grant opportunities, incentives, and donor support focused on strengthening public library infrastructure.

Established in 2024 through the generosity of a local donor, the Solar Library Grant supports sustainability projects across member libraries, with a strong emphasis on solar energy.


Mondovi Public Library’s Participation

By participating in this program, Mondovi Public Library is taking an active role in:

  • Supporting long-term energy efficiency and cost savings
  • Exploring and implementing renewable energy solutions
  • Reducing environmental impact
  • Demonstrating leadership in community sustainability efforts
  • Enhancing the library as a model for responsible public infrastructure

This initiative reflects our commitment to both fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship for our community.


Project Partners & Installation

Mondovi Public Library’s solar installation was completed in partnership with Next Step Energy, whose work helped bring this renewable energy project to life as part of the Solar Cohort Program.

We are grateful for their expertise and support in advancing sustainable energy solutions for our library.


Why This Matters

Libraries serve as community anchors, and investments in sustainability help ensure that public resources are used wisely.

Through solar energy and related improvements, Mondovi Public Library is helping to:

  • Lower operational energy costs over time
  • Reinforce responsible use of taxpayer and grant funding
  • Promote awareness of renewable energy in our community
  • Support a healthier, more sustainable future

Regional Impact

Exciting work is being done across the Winding Rivers Library System’s seven-county region as libraries invest in renewable energy.

Together, participating libraries are serving as models of innovation, demonstrating how public institutions can lead in sustainability, financial stewardship, and environmental education.

Mondovi Public Library is proud to be part of this growing effort.


See Our Solar Impact in Real Time

Visitors are invited to stop into Mondovi Public Library and view our solar energy usage on our in-house display monitor. This interactive feature shows real-time data on how much energy our system is producing, helping make renewable energy visible and easy to understand.

It’s a simple way to see sustainability in action—and to explore how solar power is helping our library reduce energy costs and support a greener future.


About the Grant Program

The Solar Library Grant, established in 2024, provides funding for sustainability projects across WRLS member libraries.

All contributions to this fund are dedicated to creating and enhancing energy-efficient improvements across library facilities and grounds, with a strong focus on solar energy.


Program Contact

For more information about the Solar Cohort Program or how to support sustainability efforts:

Jessica Schoonover
WRLS Projects and Grants Manager
📧 jessica@wrlsweb.org
📞 800-477-7131