Resolution on the Importance of Sustainable Libraries passed at the February 6, 2014 New York Library Association (NYLA) Council Meeting!

Resolution on the Importance of Sustainable Libraries

Whereas, libraries are essential to the communities they serve; and

Whereas, library leaders have a mandate to ensure future access to economical library services; and

Whereas, libraries that demonstrate good stewardship of the resources entrusted to them can build their base of support in their communities which leads to sustainable funding; and

Whereas, the scientific community has clearly communicated that current trends in climate change are of great concern to all; and

Whereas, the people who work in our libraries and access services in our facilities deserve a healthy environment in which to do so; and

Whereas, libraries who demonstrate leadership in making sustainable decisions that help to positively address climate change, respect natural resources and create healthy indoor and outdoor environments will stabilize and reduce their long-term energy costs, increase the support for the library in their community; and reveal new sources of funding; therefore be it

Resolved, that the New York Library Association, on behalf of its members, recognizes the important role libraries can play in larger community conversations about resiliency, climate change, and a sustainable future; and be it further

Resolved, that the New York Library Association enthusiastically encourages activities by its membership – and itself – to be proactive in their application of sustainable thinking in the areas of their facilities, operations, policy, technology, programming and partnerships.

Drafted for consideration by
Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, NYLA Councilor-at-Large
Coordinator for Library Sustainability
Mid-Hudson Library System
103 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

Adopted by NYLA Council, February 6, 2014

And a shout out to past-NYLA president and all-around sustainability champion and good guy Matthew Bollerman, director of the Hauppauge Public Library, for helping me wordsmith the resolution!