Sustainability Practices in Libraries and Educational Institutions: Building a Resilient Future
Jairaj Shanker
Journal of Information & Systems Management, Vol. 15, No. 2, 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6025/jism/2025/15/2/49-55
Link: https://www.dline.info/jism/fulltext/v15n2/jismv15n2_1.pdf
Abstract:
In todayâ€™s dynamic world, sustainability has become paramount across many sectors, including libraries
and educational institutions. These entities, as hubs of knowledge dissemination and learning, play a crucial
role in promoting and practicing sustainability. By implementing sustainable measures, libraries and educational
institutions not only reduce their conservational foot print but also educate and inspire future
generations on responsible environmental stewardship. This article explores the significance of sustainability
in these contexts, highlighting environmental responsibility, educational impact, and economic benefits.
Specific sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, green building standards, and
sustainable collection management, are explored, with illustrative examples from institutions like Harvard
University and the University of British Columbia. Furthermore, the article addresses challenges such as
funding constraints and cultural shifts, proposing strategies to bolster institutional commitment and effectiveness
in sustainability initiatives. By integrating sustainability in to operations and curricula, libraries
and educational institutions can lead by example, fostering a sustainable future for all.