Environmental Action
Suffolk Community Libraries manages 45 libraries across Suffolk. We keenly understand our environmental responsibility and impact as the library service in Suffolk.
The very nature of the library service involves reusing books and other items which are borrowed many times over but there is plenty more we can do to understand and reduce our carbon footprint.
We will continue to take action through:
- Understanding our data better
- Empowering our staff to act though training and staff-led focus groups
- Advocate for nature, supporting greater biodiversity around our libraries and in our communities
- Providing opportunities for learning and environmental education in our communities.
Suffolk Community Libraries understands that it is crucial that we proactively act to prevent climate change.
Our work so far
Read about our projects and how our libraries champion environmental sustainability.
Stowmarket Garden Project
The vision for the project was to develop a space which was environmentally sustainable, whilst also encouraging wildlife and providing a space which nurtures creativity.
The ‘Stitching Stowe’ design was heavily rooted in the history of Stowmarket with artworks created throughout the garden inspired by the town.
Lowestoft Garden Project
With support from Suffolk Wildlife Trust and local organic agro-farm Wakelyns, a team of volunteers and library staff turned an unused piece of ground at the front of the library into a thriving garden using people power.
Throughout the spring the new green space was filled with food for birds and pollinators, to improve the biodiversity of the space, and the team interplanted these with high yield produce including but not limited to squash, raspberries and blackcurrants.
Environmentalist in Residence
Exploring the cross-pollination of creativity and environmental action, the Environmentalist in Residence programme celebrates conservation and sustainability, offering programmes and workshops – facilitating community advocacy to strive for a better and more sustainable future.
Read about our previous Environmentalists in Residence and the work they did in the local community.
Wild Reads Programme
Wild Reads is a partnership between Suffolk Community Libraries and Suffolk Wildlife Trust, celebrating the beauty of the natural world through the power of words. Every autumn, six nature-themed books are chosen as part of the collection for people to read for free with their library card.
For younger readers there are also the Go Wild programme, featuring recommended books and fun educational events to enjoy to inspire the next generation of naturalists.
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