Over the past 18 months, the library has completed over 150 tasks ranging from inventorying our trash, to building policies with sustainability in mind, to creating and nurturing community partnerships, and so much more.
Stay tuned for news about an upcoming sustainability celebration where we will celebrate this accomplishment with the whole community!
Sustainability is much more than green design applied through strategies such as the use of solar panels and LED lights. It's the capacity to thrive. The ALA, NYLA and SLI have all adopted the Triple Bottom Line definition of sustainability. This consists of practices that are environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable. Libraries play an important and unique role in promoting community awareness about resilience, climate change, and a sustainable future.
The Mamakating Library believes that in order to fulfill our purpose in serving the community, we must be engaged in an ongoing effort to put into place policies and practices that address the full realm of sustainability. Decisions and practices take into consideration the "triple bottom line" definition of sustainability: to be truly sustainable an organization must embody practices that are environmentally sound, economically feasible and socially equitable.
As we seek to reduce our impact on the environment, we are committed to continually evaluating our processes, and taking actions to conserve energy and water, support renewable energy resources, minimize pollution and waste. These efforts are extended to contractors serving or otherwise acting on behalf of the organization.
The Mamakating Library recognizes the important role libraries play in larger community conversations about resiliency and a sustainable future. We are committed to community engagement on issues related to sustainability through our facility, collections, programs and outreach activities.