Libraries and Environmental Management

Source Article:
Rowley, J. Libraries and Environmental Management. [Electronic version]. Library Management, 27(4/5). Retrieved on October 1, 2009 from www.emeraldinsight.com/10.1108/01435120610668205

Abstract
This paper opens the debate on the contribution that libraries can, and might, make to thier environment. It finds that libraries' commitment to environmental issues is significant but implicit rather than explicit and there is scope for more coordinated debate, policy-making and actions in this arena, especially in the face of some of the challenges that digitization poses. The information contained in this artcle will be of interest to those committed to environmenatl issues.

Things I learned from the article:

Libraries contribution to environmental management (which most are not probably aware that it is a part of environmental management)

1. Borrowing- libraries have a natural recycling role through thier provision of books, journals, audiovisual materials and other information sources for the use of many people.
2. Contruction and maintenance of buildings that act as meeting places for communities, thus, it can lessen the construction of additional building designed for such finction.
3. Managing and maintaining information and archives on the environment, and thereby offer a resource that promotes awareness of the environment and associated issues.

The simple use of scratch papers in printing drafts and other non-significant records/files is a way of environmental management not only in libraries but in other organizations as well. The issue should be clear to everyone. There should me a clear policy statement in each organization on environmental management and corporate social responsibilty.

As we all know, the tragedy we are facing today is an after effect how our environement is treated. We, in our simple ways as librarians, should disseminate information by posting in our bulletin boards, social networks, blog, etc. October 5 is World Habitat Day and this year's theme is "Planning our Urban Future", this can be a perfect time to relate the flood here in Metro Manila to environmental management.