Sustainable Libraries Resolution

 

New Hampshire Library Association 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 library services which are environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable; and

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

Whereas, libraries that demonstrate leadership in making sustainability a priority will stabilize and reduce their long term energy costs, will create a healthy environment for all community members, and will improve the quality of life in the communities they serve; and

Whereas, libraries that demonstrate good stewardship of the resources entrusted to them can strengthen 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 American Library Association adopted sustainability as a core value of librarianship at their January 2019 Midwinter Meeting in Seattle, Washington; therefore be it

Resolved, that the New Hampshire 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 Hampshire Library Association encourages activities by its membership, by itself, and by all types of libraries, to be proactive in their application of sustainable thinking in the areas of their facilities, operations, policy making, technology, programming, and partnerships.

Approved by NHLA Membership, November 1, 2019

Adapted from the New York Library Association’s Resolution on the Importance of Sustainable Libraries (February, 2014), The Vermont Library Association Resolution Concerning Library Sustainability (May,2017), and the American Library Association Resolution of the Importance of Sustainable Libraries (June, 2015).

Link to PDF copy of Sustainable Libraries Resolution

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