But digital resources aren’t the only thing the library
offers. Recycling bins for cans, plastic bottles and paper are located on every
floor of the library. Staff computers are turned off each night to conserve
energy.
Yet none of these sustainability efforts would be possible
without the staff who implement and organize them.
In 2018, John DeGeorge, security and facilities manager at
the library, was awarded for his contribution to OSU’s Energy Management Program.
His efforts to save energy contributed to the over $50 million saved campuswide
since 2007.
“Working with the Energy Management Program on campus is
probably one of the key ways we save here at the library,” John said. “We try
to turn off lights, close the blinds, recycle cardboard and fluorescent lights,
and keep the temperature at a certain level in the summer and winter.”
Suzanne Reinman and Janet Hines of the Government Documents department
at the library have also had an impact on library sustainability nationwide. Each
day, they receive book and document deliveries from the Federal Depository. Suzanne
said each shipment used to include heaps of non-recyclable bubble wrap that was
piling up in their office. So this spring, they asked for change and initiated
the switch from plastic bubble wrap to recyclable paper on the shipments.
“We were collecting all this plastic, but what were we going
to do with it?” Suzanne said. “I emailed them and asked them to please consider
switching to paper. So they did, just by asking them!”
Suzanne and Janet are the perfect example of the power of
using your voice. They simply asked for change. Now, their request is impacting
hundreds of libraries – Suzanne estimated between 300 to 400 – and reducing
plastic use nationwide.
The OSU Library and other areas of the OSU campus began
implementing changes to be more sustainable in the mid-2000s as part of the Energy
Management Program. The program provides an incredible opportunity for
departments across campus to participate in creating a greener university.
“You just want to improve people’s lives now and in the
future,” John said.
So next time you finish off that bottle of Dr. Pepper, take
a brief moment to throw it in the recycling bin. Turn off your lights when you
leave the room, pick up trash, unplug your appliances and remember that you are
helping to create a cleaner university and greener planet
Posted by Jenny Berry, electronic communications intern
Posted by Jenny Berry, electronic communications intern
