In the first book to seriously examine the future of libraries in a climate reality-based context, Henk convincingly argues that building a carbon-neutral future for libraries is not only essential but eminently practical. Using the “three E’s” of sustainability (ecology, economy, equity) as a foundation, she traces the development of sustainability from its origins in the 1970s to the present, laying out a path librarians can take at their own institutions to begin the process of building a carbon-neutral library. Rooted in the latest science but firmly focused on concrete action, her book
- Makes the case for sustainable libraries, tying the values that define the profession to the necessity of rethinking library operations and services in light of climate change
- Guides readers through the first steps, with advice on starting the conversation, conducting outreach to stakeholders, and forming a sustainability committee
- Includes a Sustainability Assessment and a sample sustainability plan that libraries can tailor for use at their own institution
- Looks at the challenges of technology and corporate power in the library, addressing the power imbalance between large corporations and libraries and suggesting alternatives to the status quo
- Discusses how libraries can combine strong advocacy with powerful activism to propel the library world into a socially just, safely powered world
- Offers a bibliography of additional resources
Written by an activist who is also a working librarian, the book's balance between scientific research and step-by-step action will prove stimulating for library planners, administrators, LIS students, and anyone with an interest in climate change, sustainability, and libraries.
