The Conant Public Library has committed to pursuing certification with the Sustainable Libraries Initiative. Working with a mentor and a set list of requirements, the library staff, trustees, and volunteers are slowly addressing policies, procedures, and practices to make the library more sustainable for the future.
To become a Certified Sustainable Library, library staff and volunteers review and implement a list of items that fall under one (or more) of three categories: Environmentally Sound, Economically Feasible, and Socially Equitable. Together, they create the bedrock of a sustainable library.
For more information, visit the Sustainable Libraries Initiative Website.
Some of our action items working toward certification include:
- Install native plant gardens and remove invasive species to help restore insect and bird biodiversity
- More conscientious purchase of recycled & recyclable products
- More conscientious purchase of eco-friendly cleaning products
- Better understand what and how to recycle
- Offer public programs about sustainability topics
- Use Wachusett Recycle Center for craft and program supplies as much as possible
- Enlarge “Try Before You Buy” Library of Things
- Offer free fax services to public
- Offer library building as a cooling center in the hot summer months
- Conduct audits: waste and energy
