Library at the Gates of Cultures and Gemenc: (Net)working together

Abstract

The catalyst for the green library plans of the Illyés Gyula Library, located at the gate of Gemenc forest in Szekszárd, was the promise of a new building, designed in accordance with the principles of sustainability. The town's wider, unique natural environment, the obligation to nurture our cultural heritage, encouraged our mission. As an opinion-shaping institution, we have responsibility helping to restore the balance between human and natural environment. Our complex approach to library greening: green building, ecological document collection, green services and programs concerning sustainability, environmentally conscious daily operation. Based on Szekszárd’s cultural heritage and natural environment we pay special attention to the environmental education of future generations. Hiking, ecological walks play an important role in our activities. We believe that sustainable development goals can only be addressed in partnership through networking. Hence we initiated the creation of the Hungarian green library cooperation to strenghten the role of the libraries in the environmental movement. As a county library that raises awareness of the principles of sustainable development a county-wide green collaboration seemed a logical step as well. This poster will serve as an inspiration to other libraries to cooperate and commit themselves to greater social impact by addressing sustainability.