Building Bridges, Not Just Buildings: What Connects Sustainable Libraries?

Abstract

Librarians traditionally frame sustainability around buildings, energy, and climate action. But what of our responsibility for cultural and digital sustainability? This poster presents NUS Libraries' approach to holistic sustainability through award-winning spaces, innovative design, and technological initiatives. In celebration of IFLA's centennial, we share past collaborations including IFLA publications, case studies on platforms like LibMaps, and presentations at WLIC.

We also share our framework of four pillars aligned with global (UN SDGs), national (Singapore Green Plan 2030), industry (IFLA Guidelines), and institutional priorities: • [1] Green Resources broadens access through digitisation. Platforms including ScholarBank, LibMaps, and Digital Gems serve audiences across ~200 countries whilst reducing reliance on physical resources. • [2] Green Libraries integrates sustainability into operations. Our libraries hold Green Mark Platinum (Super Low Energy) certification, with Central Library achieving 48% energy savings. The BookBridge, a 31-metre Mass Engineered

Timber installation, bridges heritage with innovation. • [3] Green Programming through 20+ initiatives with 13+ partners, reaching >2,000 participants. The Roots to Reefs 360 project earned the 2023 QS Reimagine Education Bronze Award. • [4] Green Digital & Innovation explores responsible AI and XR use. Tech Central received the 2024 ALA Presidential Citation for sustainable technology integration and digital infrastructure.