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It’s your energy. We can help you understand how to use it more
efficiently and reduce environmental impacts. With 160,000 MGE
residential customers, there’s power in working together.
public library
partnership
Contact us for information about:
• Heating/Air-conditioning.
• Insulating/Weatherizing.
• Lighting.
• Windows/Doors.
• Appliances.
• Water heating.
Get more home energy information at:
• mge.com/home.
• Home Energy Line 608-252-7117.
• 800-245-1125.
Questions about billing? Call:
• 608-252-7222.
• 800-245-1125.
printed on recycled paper
your community energy company
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taking responsibility
listening. learning.
As an individual, your efficient use of energy brings benefits
such as lower bills, improved comfort levels in your home and
a reduced personal impact on the environment.
MGE takes responsibility to provide information and education
to serve our customers and stakeholders. We educate customers
today to help inform their decision making. We educate
tomorrow's stakeholders so they can help plan our energy future.
Acting together, our individual choices add up—for the benefit
of our community, our environment and our energy future.
That's the power of working together.
As your community energy company, we are committed to
sharing our experience and energy expertise. You can always
contact us for:
•
•
•
•
Answers to your energy questions.
Energy efficiency information and advice.
Help in evaluating energy-saving options.
Assistance in finding energy-efficient products.
GS1244 08/29/2006
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Library resources for energy-smart decisions
Tap the resources available at your local public library in partnership with MGE. MGE donations expand the pool of materials
and tools to help you use energy efficiently, lower your utility bill
and reduce your impact on the environment. Access MGE’s Web
site energy tools and tips using library computers.
Library resources: Give us your feedback!
Help MGE continue to support your local public library.
Tell us what energy information resources and tools are most
useful to you. E-mail us at libraryservices@mge.com.
For more details on MGE’s library partnership and a downloadable version of this brochure, please visit mge.com/about/
community/library.
“There is not such a cradle of democracy on this earth as the
Free Public Library…where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives
the slightest consideration” — Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919)
This booklet highlights materials and tools available through
this partnership. See pages 10 and 11 for contact details and
map for libraries serving MGE customers. For more information,
please contact your local public library, visit mge.com or call us
at 252-7117 (1-800-245-1125).
Table of contents
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Adult titles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Children’s titles/resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sustainable resources special collection . . . . . . . . . 4
Check out a portable energy meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
MGE energy efficiency brochures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
MGE Web site tools and tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Your account/energy use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators . . . . . . . . 8
More energy tips and tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Energy-smart kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Programs for classroom and community . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Public libraries serving MGE customers:
Contact information and map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Library resources: Give us your feedback! . . . . . . . . 12
12
1
Madison (central and branches)
c/o 201 W. Mifflin, (608) 266-6363, www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/
Mazomanie Free
102 Brodhead St., (608) 795-2104, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mazomanie/
McFarland/E .D. Locke
5114 Farwell St., (608) 838-4590, www.mcfarland.wi.us/library/default.asp
Middleton
7425 Hubbard Ave., (608) 831-5564, www.midlibrary.org/library/default.asp
Monona
1000 Nichols Road, (608) 222-6127, www.scls.lib.wi.us/monona/
Mt. Horeb
105 Perimeter St., (608) 437-5021, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mth/
Norwalk
101 Railroad St., (608) 823-7473, No Web site
Oregon
256 Brook St., (608) 835-3656, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ore/
Poynette Area
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs
118 N. Main St., (608) 635-7577, www.scls.lib.wi.us/poy/
Prairie du Chien/Wachute
Inform your energy decisions with books, videos, CDs and DVDs
available at area libraries. MGE funds library collections of
energy and environmental titles to give you more choices.
125 S. Wacouta Ave., (608) 326-6211, www.swls.org/member.pr.html
Prairie du Sac
560 Park Ave., (608) 643-8318, www.scls.lib.wi.us/pds/
Readstown
129 W. Wisconsin Ave., (608) 629-5465, No Web site
Need a library card? Know how to search for items electronically
in your library system’s online catalog? Check with your local
public library! See pages 10 and 11 for details.
Sauk City
515 Water St., (608) 643-8346, www.scls.lib.wi.us/skc/index.html
Soldiers Grove
102 Passive Sun Dr., Solar Town Center, (608) 624-5815, www.swls.org/member.so.html
Sun Prairie
1350 Linnerud Dr., (608) 825-7323, www.scls.lib.wi.us/sunprairie/
Here is a sampling of titles purchased with MGE funds.
Verona
500 Silent St., (608) 845-7180, www.ci.verona.wi.us/Library/index.html
Viroqua/McIntosh Memorial
Adult titles
118 E. Jefferson St., (608) 637-7151, www.viroqua-wisconsin.com/quality/library.asp
Waunakee
Energy for Rural Livelihoods: A Framework for Sustainable
Decision-Making by Alison Doig, et al, 2005.
Environmentalism and the Technologies of Tomorrow: Shaping
the Next Industrial Revolution by R. Olson and D. Rajeski, 2005.
Green Living: The E Magazine Handbook for Living Lightly on the
Earth by the editors of E/The Environmental Magazine, 2005.
710 South St., (608) 849-4217, www.scls.lib.wi.us/wau/home.html
Wilton
400 East St., (608) 435-6710, www.wrlsweb.org/wilton.htm
Online catalogs
South Central Library System: Visit www.linkcat.info and enter your Search criteria.
Southwest Wisconsin Library System: Visit www.swls.org and click on your library on
the map to get started.
Winding Rivers Library System: Visit www.wrlsweb.org and click the WRLSWEB catalog
button.
2
11
Library resources for energy-smart decisions
Tap the resources available at your local public library in partnership with MGE. MGE donations expand the pool of materials
and tools to help you use energy efficiently, lower your utility bill
and reduce your impact on the environment. Access MGE’s Web
site energy tools and tips using library computers.
Library resources: Give us your feedback!
Help MGE continue to support your local public library.
Tell us what energy information resources and tools are most
useful to you. E-mail us at libraryservices@mge.com.
For more details on MGE’s library partnership and a downloadable version of this brochure, please visit mge.com/about/
community/library.
“There is not such a cradle of democracy on this earth as the
Free Public Library…where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives
the slightest consideration” — Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919)
This booklet highlights materials and tools available through
this partnership. See pages 10 and 11 for contact details and
map for libraries serving MGE customers. For more information,
please contact your local public library, visit mge.com or call us
at 252-7117 (1-800-245-1125).
Table of contents
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Adult titles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Children’s titles/resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sustainable resources special collection . . . . . . . . . 4
Check out a portable energy meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
MGE energy efficiency brochures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
MGE Web site tools and tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Your account/energy use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators . . . . . . . . 8
More energy tips and tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Energy-smart kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Programs for classroom and community . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Public libraries serving MGE customers:
Contact information and map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Library resources: Give us your feedback! . . . . . . . . 12
12
1
Madison (central and branches)
c/o 201 W. Mifflin, (608) 266-6363, www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/
Mazomanie Free
102 Brodhead St., (608) 795-2104, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mazomanie/
McFarland/E .D. Locke
5114 Farwell St., (608) 838-4590, www.mcfarland.wi.us/library/default.asp
Middleton
7425 Hubbard Ave., (608) 831-5564, www.midlibrary.org/library/default.asp
Monona
1000 Nichols Road, (608) 222-6127, www.scls.lib.wi.us/monona/
Mt. Horeb
105 Perimeter St., (608) 437-5021, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mth/
Norwalk
101 Railroad St., (608) 823-7473, No Web site
Oregon
256 Brook St., (608) 835-3656, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ore/
Poynette Area
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs
118 N. Main St., (608) 635-7577, www.scls.lib.wi.us/poy/
Prairie du Chien/Wachute
Inform your energy decisions with books, videos, CDs and DVDs
available at area libraries. MGE funds library collections of
energy and environmental titles to give you more choices.
125 S. Wacouta Ave., (608) 326-6211, www.swls.org/member.pr.html
Prairie du Sac
560 Park Ave., (608) 643-8318, www.scls.lib.wi.us/pds/
Readstown
129 W. Wisconsin Ave., (608) 629-5465, No Web site
Need a library card? Know how to search for items electronically
in your library system’s online catalog? Check with your local
public library! See pages 10 and 11 for details.
Sauk City
515 Water St., (608) 643-8346, www.scls.lib.wi.us/skc/index.html
Soldiers Grove
102 Passive Sun Dr., Solar Town Center, (608) 624-5815, www.swls.org/member.so.html
Sun Prairie
1350 Linnerud Dr., (608) 825-7323, www.scls.lib.wi.us/sunprairie/
Here is a sampling of titles purchased with MGE funds.
Verona
500 Silent St., (608) 845-7180, www.ci.verona.wi.us/Library/index.html
Viroqua/McIntosh Memorial
Adult titles
118 E. Jefferson St., (608) 637-7151, www.viroqua-wisconsin.com/quality/library.asp
Waunakee
Energy for Rural Livelihoods: A Framework for Sustainable
Decision-Making by Alison Doig, et al, 2005.
Environmentalism and the Technologies of Tomorrow: Shaping
the Next Industrial Revolution by R. Olson and D. Rajeski, 2005.
Green Living: The E Magazine Handbook for Living Lightly on the
Earth by the editors of E/The Environmental Magazine, 2005.
710 South St., (608) 849-4217, www.scls.lib.wi.us/wau/home.html
Wilton
400 East St., (608) 435-6710, www.wrlsweb.org/wilton.htm
Online catalogs
South Central Library System: Visit www.linkcat.info and enter your Search criteria.
Southwest Wisconsin Library System: Visit www.swls.org and click on your library on
the map to get started.
Winding Rivers Library System: Visit www.wrlsweb.org and click the WRLSWEB catalog
button.
2
11
Public libraries serving MGE customers
New Ecological Home: A Complete Guide to Green Building
Options by Daniel D. Chiras, 2004.
Today’s Homeowner: Energy Efficiency by Film Ideas, 2004. DVD.
Transportation; Food and Farming; Environments by Rob Bowden,
2004. Three books in the “Sustainable World” series.
Wind Power: Renewable Energy for Home, Farm and Business
by Paul Gipe, Rev./Exp., 2004.
Children’s titles/resources
Ecological Literacy: Educating
Our Children for a Sustainable
World by M. Stone and
Z. Barlow, 2005.
Energy Projects for Young
Scientists by Richard C. Adams
and Robert Gardner.
Rev., 2002. Ages 9-12.
Barneveld
107 W. Orbison St., (608) 924-3711, www.swls.org/member.ba.html
Global Warming by Peggy J.
Parks, 2004. “Our Environment” series. Ages 11-17.
Black Earth
1210 Mills St., (608) 767-2400, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ber/
Cross Plains/Rosemary Garfoot
2107 Julius St., (608) 798-3881, www.scls.lib.wi.us/csp/
Heat and Energy by Steve Parker, 2005. Ages 9-13.
Dane County Bookmobile
201 W. Mifflin St. Madison, (608) 266-6388, www.dcls.info
Renewable Energy by N. Saunders and S. Chapman, 2005.
Ages 11-14.
DeForest
203 Library St., (608) 846-5482, www.deforest.lib.wi.us/
Elroy
501 Second Main St., (608) 462-2407, www.elroywi.com/library.htm
Gays Mills
205 Main St., (608) 735-4331, www.mwt.net/~gmbooks/
Turning Up the Heat: Energy by Ann Fullick, 2005. Ages 11-13.
Wind Power by Christine Petersen, 2004. Ages 8-10.
Kendall
110 E. South Railroad St., (608) 463-7103, No Web site
Why Should I Save Energy? by Jen Green, 2005. Ages 4-8.
Lodi Woman’s Club
130 Lodi St., (608) 592-4130, www.scls.lib.wi.us/lodi/index.html
10
3
Sustainable resources special collection
Sustaining Our World Our Community Ourselves, 2006
This popular collection at Madison Public Library has been
developed through a partnership between the library, MGE and
Sustain Dane, and funded by MGE. Adult and children’s books,
videos and DVDs cover such topics as:
• Sustainable
Households and
Gardens
• Sustainable
Building
• Alternative Energy
and Technology
• Sustainable Food
and Agriculture
• Take the MGE Energy Quiz.
• Solve an energy crossword puzzle
and learn cool facts and figures
on energy and the environment.
• Link to fun, interactive Internet
sites for kids on energy and
environmental topics.
• Jump to mge.com/solarschools
to view live data and compare
Madison area high schools’
solar PV system efficiency.
• Sustainable
Communities
Programs for classroom and community
• Green Business
and Economics
Enhance learning through MGE-supported energy programs
for libraries, schools and community groups. For more details,
visit mge.com/about/community/library and mge.com/about/
community/schools.
Get a copy of the 2006 bibliography from the library, Sustain
Dane or MGE, or link to a PDF version at mge.com/about/
community/library.htm.
4
Cruise to mge.com/energysmart, MGE’s fun, educational Web
pages for children.
• Arrange for entertaining and
educational energy presentations such as Wizard of Watt
and MaGicEnergy
• Borrow or download your
choice of energy curriculum for
immediate classroom use.
9
Public libraries serving MGE customers
New Ecological Home: A Complete Guide to Green Building
Options by Daniel D. Chiras, 2004.
Today’s Homeowner: Energy Efficiency by Film Ideas, 2004. DVD.
Transportation; Food and Farming; Environments by Rob Bowden,
2004. Three books in the “Sustainable World” series.
Wind Power: Renewable Energy for Home, Farm and Business
by Paul Gipe, Rev./Exp., 2004.
Children’s titles/resources
Ecological Literacy: Educating
Our Children for a Sustainable
World by M. Stone and
Z. Barlow, 2005.
Energy Projects for Young
Scientists by Richard C. Adams
and Robert Gardner.
Rev., 2002. Ages 9-12.
Barneveld
107 W. Orbison St., (608) 924-3711, www.swls.org/member.ba.html
Global Warming by Peggy J.
Parks, 2004. “Our Environment” series. Ages 11-17.
Black Earth
1210 Mills St., (608) 767-2400, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ber/
Cross Plains/Rosemary Garfoot
2107 Julius St., (608) 798-3881, www.scls.lib.wi.us/csp/
Heat and Energy by Steve Parker, 2005. Ages 9-13.
Dane County Bookmobile
201 W. Mifflin St. Madison, (608) 266-6388, www.dcls.info
Renewable Energy by N. Saunders and S. Chapman, 2005.
Ages 11-14.
DeForest
203 Library St., (608) 846-5482, www.deforest.lib.wi.us/
Elroy
501 Second Main St., (608) 462-2407, www.elroywi.com/library.htm
Gays Mills
205 Main St., (608) 735-4331, www.mwt.net/~gmbooks/
Turning Up the Heat: Energy by Ann Fullick, 2005. Ages 11-13.
Wind Power by Christine Petersen, 2004. Ages 8-10.
Kendall
110 E. South Railroad St., (608) 463-7103, No Web site
Why Should I Save Energy? by Jen Green, 2005. Ages 4-8.
Lodi Woman’s Club
130 Lodi St., (608) 592-4130, www.scls.lib.wi.us/lodi/index.html
10
3
Sustainable resources special collection
Sustaining Our World Our Community Ourselves, 2006
This popular collection at Madison Public Library has been
developed through a partnership between the library, MGE and
Sustain Dane, and funded by MGE. Adult and children’s books,
videos and DVDs cover such topics as:
• Sustainable
Households and
Gardens
• Sustainable
Building
• Alternative Energy
and Technology
• Sustainable Food
and Agriculture
• Take the MGE Energy Quiz.
• Solve an energy crossword puzzle
and learn cool facts and figures
on energy and the environment.
• Link to fun, interactive Internet
sites for kids on energy and
environmental topics.
• Jump to mge.com/solarschools
to view live data and compare
Madison area high schools’
solar PV system efficiency.
• Sustainable
Communities
Programs for classroom and community
• Green Business
and Economics
Enhance learning through MGE-supported energy programs
for libraries, schools and community groups. For more details,
visit mge.com/about/community/library and mge.com/about/
community/schools.
Get a copy of the 2006 bibliography from the library, Sustain
Dane or MGE, or link to a PDF version at mge.com/about/
community/library.htm.
4
Cruise to mge.com/energysmart, MGE’s fun, educational Web
pages for children.
• Arrange for entertaining and
educational energy presentations such as Wizard of Watt
and MaGicEnergy
• Borrow or download your
choice of energy curriculum for
immediate classroom use.
9
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators
Visit mge.com and click the Power Tomorrow link to find five
basic energy-saving steps and easy-to-use calculators for:
• Thermostat settings
• Lighting
• Laundry washed in cold water
• Turning off the juice
• Energy Star® savings
Check out a portable energy meter
Borrow a portable energy meter—just as you would a book—
to gain appliance energy insights and to help make your
equipment decisions. MGE has donated the popular meters
to area libraries.
Accurate and easy to use, these plug-in meters work on any
standard 120-volt electric appliance. Instructions are included.
Usual check-out period is two to three weeks but varies with
the host library. As meters are often in use, you may want to
reserve one ahead of time. Use it to:
• Measure voltage,
electricity cost
and electric
consumption.
More energy tips and tools
Continue on to mge.com/saveenergy for more tips and tools:
• Find more low-cost/no-cost ways to save.
• Conduct your own home energy audit.
• Learn how to compare furnaces, water heaters or other home
equipment. Click Appliances and Equipment in the left menu.
• Find links to the latest information about state and federal
incentives and tax credits for energy-saving improvements
and purchases.
• Find out the
exact operating
cost of various
appliances,
from refrigerators to lamps
and computers.
• Identify the
potential causes
of high energy use.
• Predict your savings in reducing appliance use.
• Calculate the payback for replacing older equipment.
• Discover how much power some appliances draw even when
switched “off” ( i.e., “phantom power”).
5
8
MGE energy efficiency brochures
MGE Web site tools and tips
Get acquainted with MGE’s energy-saving brochure library,
developed by MGE staff with years of energy expertise and your
information needs in mind.
Explore the many useful energy-saving tools
and tips on MGE’s Web
site. Many libraries
offer free computer
training as well as free
access to their public
computer(s). Check
with your local public
library for details.
Some public libraries
maintain a supply of
selected brochure titles.
Or use your own or a public
library computer to visit
mge.com/brochures and
download the materials you
need. A sample of MGE brochures include:
Your account/energy use
Appliance Energy Costs: Operating costs for major
household appliances
Register for My Account at mge.com/viewuse and view your
energy use as an MGE electric and/or natural gas customer:
Caulk and Weather Strip: When, why, where to use them
• See your current utility bill and account status.
Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers
• Calculate your energy use per heating degree day.
Energy-Saving Tips for Renters: Tips for before and after you rent
• Chart your electric and natural gas use from up to three years
of history.
Furnaces: Get the right heating system
• Calculate your electric kilowatt-hour use per day.
How to Insulate Your Attic
• Compare your home heating rating with others (Madison area).
Lighting: Bright new ideas
New Home Planner
Remodeling Guide: Energy-saving ideas for your home
Water Heaters
Windows: Attractive, energy-efficient choices for your home
20%
Heating Ratings for All Homes
% of 15%
Homes
With 10%
This
Rating 5%
0%
0
1 2 3
Excellent
4 5 6 7
Good Fair
8
9
10 11 12 13 14 14 16
Needs Improvement
Rating
6
7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators
Visit mge.com and click the Power Tomorrow link to find five
basic energy-saving steps and easy-to-use calculators for:
• Thermostat settings
• Lighting
• Laundry washed in cold water
• Turning off the juice
• Energy Star® savings
Check out a portable energy meter
Borrow a portable energy meter—just as you would a book—
to gain appliance energy insights and to help make your
equipment decisions. MGE has donated the popular meters
to area libraries.
Accurate and easy to use, these plug-in meters work on any
standard 120-volt electric appliance. Instructions are included.
Usual check-out period is two to three weeks but varies with
the host library. As meters are often in use, you may want to
reserve one ahead of time. Use it to:
• Measure voltage,
electricity cost
and electric
consumption.
More energy tips and tools
Continue on to mge.com/saveenergy for more tips and tools:
• Find more low-cost/no-cost ways to save.
• Conduct your own home energy audit.
• Learn how to compare furnaces, water heaters or other home
equipment. Click Appliances and Equipment in the left menu.
• Find links to the latest information about state and federal
incentives and tax credits for energy-saving improvements
and purchases.
• Find out the
exact operating
cost of various
appliances,
from refrigerators to lamps
and computers.
• Identify the
potential causes
of high energy use.
• Predict your savings in reducing appliance use.
• Calculate the payback for replacing older equipment.
• Discover how much power some appliances draw even when
switched “off” ( i.e., “phantom power”).
5
8
MGE energy efficiency brochures
MGE Web site tools and tips
Get acquainted with MGE’s energy-saving brochure library,
developed by MGE staff with years of energy expertise and your
information needs in mind.
Explore the many useful energy-saving tools
and tips on MGE’s Web
site. Many libraries
offer free computer
training as well as free
access to their public
computer(s). Check
with your local public
library for details.
Some public libraries
maintain a supply of
selected brochure titles.
Or use your own or a public
library computer to visit
mge.com/brochures and
download the materials you
need. A sample of MGE brochures include:
Your account/energy use
Appliance Energy Costs: Operating costs for major
household appliances
Register for My Account at mge.com/viewuse and view your
energy use as an MGE electric and/or natural gas customer:
Caulk and Weather Strip: When, why, where to use them
• See your current utility bill and account status.
Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers
• Calculate your energy use per heating degree day.
Energy-Saving Tips for Renters: Tips for before and after you rent
• Chart your electric and natural gas use from up to three years
of history.
Furnaces: Get the right heating system
• Calculate your electric kilowatt-hour use per day.
How to Insulate Your Attic
• Compare your home heating rating with others (Madison area).
Lighting: Bright new ideas
New Home Planner
Remodeling Guide: Energy-saving ideas for your home
Water Heaters
Windows: Attractive, energy-efficient choices for your home
20%
Heating Ratings for All Homes
% of 15%
Homes
With 10%
This
Rating 5%
0%
0
1 2 3
Excellent
4 5 6 7
Good Fair
8
9
10 11 12 13 14 14 16
Needs Improvement
Rating
6
7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators
Visit mge.com and click the Power Tomorrow link to find five
basic energy-saving steps and easy-to-use calculators for:
• Thermostat settings
• Lighting
• Laundry washed in cold water
• Turning off the juice
• Energy Star® savings
Check out a portable energy meter
Borrow a portable energy meter—just as you would a book—
to gain appliance energy insights and to help make your
equipment decisions. MGE has donated the popular meters
to area libraries.
Accurate and easy to use, these plug-in meters work on any
standard 120-volt electric appliance. Instructions are included.
Usual check-out period is two to three weeks but varies with
the host library. As meters are often in use, you may want to
reserve one ahead of time. Use it to:
• Measure voltage,
electricity cost
and electric
consumption.
More energy tips and tools
Continue on to mge.com/saveenergy for more tips and tools:
• Find more low-cost/no-cost ways to save.
• Conduct your own home energy audit.
• Learn how to compare furnaces, water heaters or other home
equipment. Click Appliances and Equipment in the left menu.
• Find links to the latest information about state and federal
incentives and tax credits for energy-saving improvements
and purchases.
• Find out the
exact operating
cost of various
appliances,
from refrigerators to lamps
and computers.
• Identify the
potential causes
of high energy use.
• Predict your savings in reducing appliance use.
• Calculate the payback for replacing older equipment.
• Discover how much power some appliances draw even when
switched “off” ( i.e., “phantom power”).
5
8
MGE energy efficiency brochures
MGE Web site tools and tips
Get acquainted with MGE’s energy-saving brochure library,
developed by MGE staff with years of energy expertise and your
information needs in mind.
Explore the many useful energy-saving tools
and tips on MGE’s Web
site. Many libraries
offer free computer
training as well as free
access to their public
computer(s). Check
with your local public
library for details.
Some public libraries
maintain a supply of
selected brochure titles.
Or use your own or a public
library computer to visit
mge.com/brochures and
download the materials you
need. A sample of MGE brochures include:
Your account/energy use
Appliance Energy Costs: Operating costs for major
household appliances
Register for My Account at mge.com/viewuse and view your
energy use as an MGE electric and/or natural gas customer:
Caulk and Weather Strip: When, why, where to use them
• See your current utility bill and account status.
Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers
• Calculate your energy use per heating degree day.
Energy-Saving Tips for Renters: Tips for before and after you rent
• Chart your electric and natural gas use from up to three years
of history.
Furnaces: Get the right heating system
• Calculate your electric kilowatt-hour use per day.
How to Insulate Your Attic
• Compare your home heating rating with others (Madison area).
Lighting: Bright new ideas
New Home Planner
Remodeling Guide: Energy-saving ideas for your home
Water Heaters
Windows: Attractive, energy-efficient choices for your home
20%
Heating Ratings for All Homes
% of 15%
Homes
With 10%
This
Rating 5%
0%
0
1 2 3
Excellent
4 5 6 7
Good Fair
8
9
10 11 12 13 14 14 16
Needs Improvement
Rating
6
7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators
Visit mge.com and click the Power Tomorrow link to find five
basic energy-saving steps and easy-to-use calculators for:
• Thermostat settings
• Lighting
• Laundry washed in cold water
• Turning off the juice
• Energy Star® savings
Check out a portable energy meter
Borrow a portable energy meter—just as you would a book—
to gain appliance energy insights and to help make your
equipment decisions. MGE has donated the popular meters
to area libraries.
Accurate and easy to use, these plug-in meters work on any
standard 120-volt electric appliance. Instructions are included.
Usual check-out period is two to three weeks but varies with
the host library. As meters are often in use, you may want to
reserve one ahead of time. Use it to:
• Measure voltage,
electricity cost
and electric
consumption.
More energy tips and tools
Continue on to mge.com/saveenergy for more tips and tools:
• Find more low-cost/no-cost ways to save.
• Conduct your own home energy audit.
• Learn how to compare furnaces, water heaters or other home
equipment. Click Appliances and Equipment in the left menu.
• Find links to the latest information about state and federal
incentives and tax credits for energy-saving improvements
and purchases.
• Find out the
exact operating
cost of various
appliances,
from refrigerators to lamps
and computers.
• Identify the
potential causes
of high energy use.
• Predict your savings in reducing appliance use.
• Calculate the payback for replacing older equipment.
• Discover how much power some appliances draw even when
switched “off” ( i.e., “phantom power”).
5
8
MGE energy efficiency brochures
MGE Web site tools and tips
Get acquainted with MGE’s energy-saving brochure library,
developed by MGE staff with years of energy expertise and your
information needs in mind.
Explore the many useful energy-saving tools
and tips on MGE’s Web
site. Many libraries
offer free computer
training as well as free
access to their public
computer(s). Check
with your local public
library for details.
Some public libraries
maintain a supply of
selected brochure titles.
Or use your own or a public
library computer to visit
mge.com/brochures and
download the materials you
need. A sample of MGE brochures include:
Your account/energy use
Appliance Energy Costs: Operating costs for major
household appliances
Register for My Account at mge.com/viewuse and view your
energy use as an MGE electric and/or natural gas customer:
Caulk and Weather Strip: When, why, where to use them
• See your current utility bill and account status.
Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers
• Calculate your energy use per heating degree day.
Energy-Saving Tips for Renters: Tips for before and after you rent
• Chart your electric and natural gas use from up to three years
of history.
Furnaces: Get the right heating system
• Calculate your electric kilowatt-hour use per day.
How to Insulate Your Attic
• Compare your home heating rating with others (Madison area).
Lighting: Bright new ideas
New Home Planner
Remodeling Guide: Energy-saving ideas for your home
Water Heaters
Windows: Attractive, energy-efficient choices for your home
20%
Heating Ratings for All Homes
% of 15%
Homes
With 10%
This
Rating 5%
0%
0
1 2 3
Excellent
4 5 6 7
Good Fair
8
9
10 11 12 13 14 14 16
Needs Improvement
Rating
6
7
Public libraries serving MGE customers
New Ecological Home: A Complete Guide to Green Building
Options by Daniel D. Chiras, 2004.
Today’s Homeowner: Energy Efficiency by Film Ideas, 2004. DVD.
Transportation; Food and Farming; Environments by Rob Bowden,
2004. Three books in the “Sustainable World” series.
Wind Power: Renewable Energy for Home, Farm and Business
by Paul Gipe, Rev./Exp., 2004.
Children’s titles/resources
Ecological Literacy: Educating
Our Children for a Sustainable
World by M. Stone and
Z. Barlow, 2005.
Energy Projects for Young
Scientists by Richard C. Adams
and Robert Gardner.
Rev., 2002. Ages 9-12.
Barneveld
107 W. Orbison St., (608) 924-3711, www.swls.org/member.ba.html
Global Warming by Peggy J.
Parks, 2004. “Our Environment” series. Ages 11-17.
Black Earth
1210 Mills St., (608) 767-2400, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ber/
Cross Plains/Rosemary Garfoot
2107 Julius St., (608) 798-3881, www.scls.lib.wi.us/csp/
Heat and Energy by Steve Parker, 2005. Ages 9-13.
Dane County Bookmobile
201 W. Mifflin St. Madison, (608) 266-6388, www.dcls.info
Renewable Energy by N. Saunders and S. Chapman, 2005.
Ages 11-14.
DeForest
203 Library St., (608) 846-5482, www.deforest.lib.wi.us/
Elroy
501 Second Main St., (608) 462-2407, www.elroywi.com/library.htm
Gays Mills
205 Main St., (608) 735-4331, www.mwt.net/~gmbooks/
Turning Up the Heat: Energy by Ann Fullick, 2005. Ages 11-13.
Wind Power by Christine Petersen, 2004. Ages 8-10.
Kendall
110 E. South Railroad St., (608) 463-7103, No Web site
Why Should I Save Energy? by Jen Green, 2005. Ages 4-8.
Lodi Woman’s Club
130 Lodi St., (608) 592-4130, www.scls.lib.wi.us/lodi/index.html
10
3
Sustainable resources special collection
Sustaining Our World Our Community Ourselves, 2006
This popular collection at Madison Public Library has been
developed through a partnership between the library, MGE and
Sustain Dane, and funded by MGE. Adult and children’s books,
videos and DVDs cover such topics as:
• Sustainable
Households and
Gardens
• Sustainable
Building
• Alternative Energy
and Technology
• Sustainable Food
and Agriculture
• Take the MGE Energy Quiz.
• Solve an energy crossword puzzle
and learn cool facts and figures
on energy and the environment.
• Link to fun, interactive Internet
sites for kids on energy and
environmental topics.
• Jump to mge.com/solarschools
to view live data and compare
Madison area high schools’
solar PV system efficiency.
• Sustainable
Communities
Programs for classroom and community
• Green Business
and Economics
Enhance learning through MGE-supported energy programs
for libraries, schools and community groups. For more details,
visit mge.com/about/community/library and mge.com/about/
community/schools.
Get a copy of the 2006 bibliography from the library, Sustain
Dane or MGE, or link to a PDF version at mge.com/about/
community/library.htm.
4
Cruise to mge.com/energysmart, MGE’s fun, educational Web
pages for children.
• Arrange for entertaining and
educational energy presentations such as Wizard of Watt
and MaGicEnergy
• Borrow or download your
choice of energy curriculum for
immediate classroom use.
9
Public libraries serving MGE customers
New Ecological Home: A Complete Guide to Green Building
Options by Daniel D. Chiras, 2004.
Today’s Homeowner: Energy Efficiency by Film Ideas, 2004. DVD.
Transportation; Food and Farming; Environments by Rob Bowden,
2004. Three books in the “Sustainable World” series.
Wind Power: Renewable Energy for Home, Farm and Business
by Paul Gipe, Rev./Exp., 2004.
Children’s titles/resources
Ecological Literacy: Educating
Our Children for a Sustainable
World by M. Stone and
Z. Barlow, 2005.
Energy Projects for Young
Scientists by Richard C. Adams
and Robert Gardner.
Rev., 2002. Ages 9-12.
Barneveld
107 W. Orbison St., (608) 924-3711, www.swls.org/member.ba.html
Global Warming by Peggy J.
Parks, 2004. “Our Environment” series. Ages 11-17.
Black Earth
1210 Mills St., (608) 767-2400, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ber/
Cross Plains/Rosemary Garfoot
2107 Julius St., (608) 798-3881, www.scls.lib.wi.us/csp/
Heat and Energy by Steve Parker, 2005. Ages 9-13.
Dane County Bookmobile
201 W. Mifflin St. Madison, (608) 266-6388, www.dcls.info
Renewable Energy by N. Saunders and S. Chapman, 2005.
Ages 11-14.
DeForest
203 Library St., (608) 846-5482, www.deforest.lib.wi.us/
Elroy
501 Second Main St., (608) 462-2407, www.elroywi.com/library.htm
Gays Mills
205 Main St., (608) 735-4331, www.mwt.net/~gmbooks/
Turning Up the Heat: Energy by Ann Fullick, 2005. Ages 11-13.
Wind Power by Christine Petersen, 2004. Ages 8-10.
Kendall
110 E. South Railroad St., (608) 463-7103, No Web site
Why Should I Save Energy? by Jen Green, 2005. Ages 4-8.
Lodi Woman’s Club
130 Lodi St., (608) 592-4130, www.scls.lib.wi.us/lodi/index.html
10
3
Sustainable resources special collection
Sustaining Our World Our Community Ourselves, 2006
This popular collection at Madison Public Library has been
developed through a partnership between the library, MGE and
Sustain Dane, and funded by MGE. Adult and children’s books,
videos and DVDs cover such topics as:
• Sustainable
Households and
Gardens
• Sustainable
Building
• Alternative Energy
and Technology
• Sustainable Food
and Agriculture
• Take the MGE Energy Quiz.
• Solve an energy crossword puzzle
and learn cool facts and figures
on energy and the environment.
• Link to fun, interactive Internet
sites for kids on energy and
environmental topics.
• Jump to mge.com/solarschools
to view live data and compare
Madison area high schools’
solar PV system efficiency.
• Sustainable
Communities
Programs for classroom and community
• Green Business
and Economics
Enhance learning through MGE-supported energy programs
for libraries, schools and community groups. For more details,
visit mge.com/about/community/library and mge.com/about/
community/schools.
Get a copy of the 2006 bibliography from the library, Sustain
Dane or MGE, or link to a PDF version at mge.com/about/
community/library.htm.
4
Cruise to mge.com/energysmart, MGE’s fun, educational Web
pages for children.
• Arrange for entertaining and
educational energy presentations such as Wizard of Watt
and MaGicEnergy
• Borrow or download your
choice of energy curriculum for
immediate classroom use.
9
Library resources for energy-smart decisions
Tap the resources available at your local public library in partnership with MGE. MGE donations expand the pool of materials
and tools to help you use energy efficiently, lower your utility bill
and reduce your impact on the environment. Access MGE’s Web
site energy tools and tips using library computers.
Library resources: Give us your feedback!
Help MGE continue to support your local public library.
Tell us what energy information resources and tools are most
useful to you. E-mail us at libraryservices@mge.com.
For more details on MGE’s library partnership and a downloadable version of this brochure, please visit mge.com/about/
community/library.
“There is not such a cradle of democracy on this earth as the
Free Public Library…where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives
the slightest consideration” — Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919)
This booklet highlights materials and tools available through
this partnership. See pages 10 and 11 for contact details and
map for libraries serving MGE customers. For more information,
please contact your local public library, visit mge.com or call us
at 252-7117 (1-800-245-1125).
Table of contents
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Adult titles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Children’s titles/resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sustainable resources special collection . . . . . . . . . 4
Check out a portable energy meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
MGE energy efficiency brochures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
MGE Web site tools and tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Your account/energy use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators . . . . . . . . 8
More energy tips and tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Energy-smart kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Programs for classroom and community . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Public libraries serving MGE customers:
Contact information and map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Library resources: Give us your feedback! . . . . . . . . 12
12
1
Madison (central and branches)
c/o 201 W. Mifflin, (608) 266-6363, www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/
Mazomanie Free
102 Brodhead St., (608) 795-2104, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mazomanie/
McFarland/E .D. Locke
5114 Farwell St., (608) 838-4590, www.mcfarland.wi.us/library/default.asp
Middleton
7425 Hubbard Ave., (608) 831-5564, www.midlibrary.org/library/default.asp
Monona
1000 Nichols Road, (608) 222-6127, www.scls.lib.wi.us/monona/
Mt. Horeb
105 Perimeter St., (608) 437-5021, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mth/
Norwalk
101 Railroad St., (608) 823-7473, No Web site
Oregon
256 Brook St., (608) 835-3656, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ore/
Poynette Area
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs
118 N. Main St., (608) 635-7577, www.scls.lib.wi.us/poy/
Prairie du Chien/Wachute
Inform your energy decisions with books, videos, CDs and DVDs
available at area libraries. MGE funds library collections of
energy and environmental titles to give you more choices.
125 S. Wacouta Ave., (608) 326-6211, www.swls.org/member.pr.html
Prairie du Sac
560 Park Ave., (608) 643-8318, www.scls.lib.wi.us/pds/
Readstown
129 W. Wisconsin Ave., (608) 629-5465, No Web site
Need a library card? Know how to search for items electronically
in your library system’s online catalog? Check with your local
public library! See pages 10 and 11 for details.
Sauk City
515 Water St., (608) 643-8346, www.scls.lib.wi.us/skc/index.html
Soldiers Grove
102 Passive Sun Dr., Solar Town Center, (608) 624-5815, www.swls.org/member.so.html
Sun Prairie
1350 Linnerud Dr., (608) 825-7323, www.scls.lib.wi.us/sunprairie/
Here is a sampling of titles purchased with MGE funds.
Verona
500 Silent St., (608) 845-7180, www.ci.verona.wi.us/Library/index.html
Viroqua/McIntosh Memorial
Adult titles
118 E. Jefferson St., (608) 637-7151, www.viroqua-wisconsin.com/quality/library.asp
Waunakee
Energy for Rural Livelihoods: A Framework for Sustainable
Decision-Making by Alison Doig, et al, 2005.
Environmentalism and the Technologies of Tomorrow: Shaping
the Next Industrial Revolution by R. Olson and D. Rajeski, 2005.
Green Living: The E Magazine Handbook for Living Lightly on the
Earth by the editors of E/The Environmental Magazine, 2005.
710 South St., (608) 849-4217, www.scls.lib.wi.us/wau/home.html
Wilton
400 East St., (608) 435-6710, www.wrlsweb.org/wilton.htm
Online catalogs
South Central Library System: Visit www.linkcat.info and enter your Search criteria.
Southwest Wisconsin Library System: Visit www.swls.org and click on your library on
the map to get started.
Winding Rivers Library System: Visit www.wrlsweb.org and click the WRLSWEB catalog
button.
2
11
Library resources for energy-smart decisions
Tap the resources available at your local public library in partnership with MGE. MGE donations expand the pool of materials
and tools to help you use energy efficiently, lower your utility bill
and reduce your impact on the environment. Access MGE’s Web
site energy tools and tips using library computers.
Library resources: Give us your feedback!
Help MGE continue to support your local public library.
Tell us what energy information resources and tools are most
useful to you. E-mail us at libraryservices@mge.com.
For more details on MGE’s library partnership and a downloadable version of this brochure, please visit mge.com/about/
community/library.
“There is not such a cradle of democracy on this earth as the
Free Public Library…where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives
the slightest consideration” — Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919)
This booklet highlights materials and tools available through
this partnership. See pages 10 and 11 for contact details and
map for libraries serving MGE customers. For more information,
please contact your local public library, visit mge.com or call us
at 252-7117 (1-800-245-1125).
Table of contents
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Adult titles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Children’s titles/resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sustainable resources special collection . . . . . . . . . 4
Check out a portable energy meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
MGE energy efficiency brochures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
MGE Web site tools and tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Your account/energy use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Basic energy-saving steps and calculators . . . . . . . . 8
More energy tips and tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Energy-smart kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Programs for classroom and community . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Public libraries serving MGE customers:
Contact information and map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Library resources: Give us your feedback! . . . . . . . . 12
12
1
Madison (central and branches)
c/o 201 W. Mifflin, (608) 266-6363, www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/
Mazomanie Free
102 Brodhead St., (608) 795-2104, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mazomanie/
McFarland/E .D. Locke
5114 Farwell St., (608) 838-4590, www.mcfarland.wi.us/library/default.asp
Middleton
7425 Hubbard Ave., (608) 831-5564, www.midlibrary.org/library/default.asp
Monona
1000 Nichols Road, (608) 222-6127, www.scls.lib.wi.us/monona/
Mt. Horeb
105 Perimeter St., (608) 437-5021, www.scls.lib.wi.us/mth/
Norwalk
101 Railroad St., (608) 823-7473, No Web site
Oregon
256 Brook St., (608) 835-3656, www.scls.lib.wi.us/ore/
Poynette Area
Circulating books, videos, CDs, DVDs
118 N. Main St., (608) 635-7577, www.scls.lib.wi.us/poy/
Prairie du Chien/Wachute
Inform your energy decisions with books, videos, CDs and DVDs
available at area libraries. MGE funds library collections of
energy and environmental titles to give you more choices.
125 S. Wacouta Ave., (608) 326-6211, www.swls.org/member.pr.html
Prairie du Sac
560 Park Ave., (608) 643-8318, www.scls.lib.wi.us/pds/
Readstown
129 W. Wisconsin Ave., (608) 629-5465, No Web site
Need a library card? Know how to search for items electronically
in your library system’s online catalog? Check with your local
public library! See pages 10 and 11 for details.
Sauk City
515 Water St., (608) 643-8346, www.scls.lib.wi.us/skc/index.html
Soldiers Grove
102 Passive Sun Dr., Solar Town Center, (608) 624-5815, www.swls.org/member.so.html
Sun Prairie
1350 Linnerud Dr., (608) 825-7323, www.scls.lib.wi.us/sunprairie/
Here is a sampling of titles purchased with MGE funds.
Verona
500 Silent St., (608) 845-7180, www.ci.verona.wi.us/Library/index.html
Viroqua/McIntosh Memorial
Adult titles
118 E. Jefferson St., (608) 637-7151, www.viroqua-wisconsin.com/quality/library.asp
Waunakee
Energy for Rural Livelihoods: A Framework for Sustainable
Decision-Making by Alison Doig, et al, 2005.
Environmentalism and the Technologies of Tomorrow: Shaping
the Next Industrial Revolution by R. Olson and D. Rajeski, 2005.
Green Living: The E Magazine Handbook for Living Lightly on the
Earth by the editors of E/The Environmental Magazine, 2005.
710 South St., (608) 849-4217, www.scls.lib.wi.us/wau/home.html
Wilton
400 East St., (608) 435-6710, www.wrlsweb.org/wilton.htm
Online catalogs
South Central Library System: Visit www.linkcat.info and enter your Search criteria.
Southwest Wisconsin Library System: Visit www.swls.org and click on your library on
the map to get started.
Winding Rivers Library System: Visit www.wrlsweb.org and click the WRLSWEB catalog
button.
2
11
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taking responsibility
listening. learning.
As an individual, your efficient use of energy brings benefits
such as lower bills, improved comfort levels in your home and
a reduced personal impact on the environment.
MGE takes responsibility to provide information and education
to serve our customers and stakeholders. We educate customers
today to help inform their decision making. We educate
tomorrow's stakeholders so they can help plan our energy future.
Acting together, our individual choices add up—for the benefit
of our community, our environment and our energy future.
That's the power of working together.
As your community energy company, we are committed to
sharing our experience and energy expertise. You can always
contact us for:
•
•
•
•
Answers to your energy questions.
Energy efficiency information and advice.
Help in evaluating energy-saving options.
Assistance in finding energy-efficient products.
GS1244 08/29/2006
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It’s your energy. We can help you understand how to use it more
efficiently and reduce environmental impacts. With 160,000 MGE
residential customers, there’s power in working together.
public library
partnership
Contact us for information about:
• Heating/Air-conditioning.
• Insulating/Weatherizing.
• Lighting.
• Windows/Doors.
• Appliances.
• Water heating.
Get more home energy information at:
• mge.com/home.
• Home Energy Line 608-252-7117.
• 800-245-1125.
Questions about billing? Call:
• 608-252-7222.
• 800-245-1125.
printed on recycled paper
your community energy company
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