Libraries and Sustainability: Programs and Practices for Community Impact

by Rene Tanner (Editor), Adrian K. Ho (Editor), Monika Antonelli (Editor)

Library workers at all types of organizations, as well as LIS students learning about this newest Core Value of Librarianship, will find this book an easy-to-digest introduction to what staff at a range of libraries have accomplished in incorporating sustainability into their decision making and professional practices. In addition, a discussion about the role of economics and sustainability will challenge readers to stretch in new ways to positively impact their communities.

As a core value of librarianship, sustainability is not an end point but a mindset, a lens through which operational and outreach decisions can be made. And it extends beyond an awareness of the roles that libraries can play in educating and advocating for a sustainable future. As the programs and practices in this resource demonstrate, sustainability can also encompass engaging with communities in discussions about resilience, regeneration, and social justice. Inspiring yet assuredly pragmatic, the many topics explored in this book edited by members of ALA's Sustainability Round Table and ALA’s Special Task Force on Sustainability include

Genres: Nonfiction, Librarianship, Professional Development

176 pages, Paperback

Published November 8, 2021

Reviews

[Nori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was more of a work read, than a fun read. But, it was definitely an important read. I have to admit I know one of the chapter authors. I have the benefit of working with her, a librarian with a large scope of knowledge on sustainability and it has opened my eyes a bit, as has this book. There's certainly a lot of things I already knew in here, but it was nice having all of these topics/concepts in one place. I hope we see more books like this soon. It's refreshing to know there are so many good people out there getting things started. I liked that the chapters were all short and concise. It made everything seem doable. I recommend this one to all library professionals.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great for consulting and likely for course work. Key chapters:

Rapid Library Disaster Response... preparation, planning, tabletop exercises
Sustainability in Library Buildings - crucial for consulting with construction managers
Sustainable Event Planning
Why we Can't talk about Sustainability in Libraries without also talking about Racism
Community Based Librarianship

[Lauren Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

An insightful look into various aspects and applications of sustainability in libraries, with a holistic perspective. The most exciting thing is that I am discussing this in a (virtual) professional book club.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this as a recent participant in the American Library Association’s Libraries and Sustainability Virtual Book Club Series. After our three sessions, I have a pretty good grasp of the following:

- the conceptual model of Doughnut Economics and how it can help libraries contribute to a sustainable and resilient society
- the importance of the Knowledge Commons for a more just society
- how the triple bottom line of sustainability can be applied through library operations, service/program design and outreach
- how other library leaders have done this work and achieved Sustainable Library Certification status

This book is written in an approachable way, despite tackling a complicated situation. I'm walking away from it with a more empowered mindset to be the change needed to save our world, especially as it relates to my profession.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just skimmed through this book but I loved the chapter on hosting repair events! I think it might be a really neat event to have at my library.