The University of Delaware Library

Statement from Susan Brynteson,
The May Morris Director of Libraries

"The University of Delaware Library works collaboratively with many others at the University to operate in a sustainable manner, and to encourage action on the part of all library users including students, faculty and staff. The Library is a leader in provision of electronic information, resulting in sharply reduced number of print journals in favor of electronic journals, thus requiring less use of trees for paper. The Library supports and encourages downloading and emailing electronic research to reduce the amount of printing used. To further reduce use of paper, the Library provides duplex printers which print on both sides of paper. Working with University Facilities, the Library has a long history of support for the recycling. The Library, working with University Facilities, recycles all paper from copiers and printers, cardboard from boxes, and other recyclable materials. Recycling wastebaskets are placed throughout the Morris Library. Printer cartridges are sent by the Library to UD Occupational Health and Safety for recycling. When the Library has held programs and receptions related to Library exhibitions and the Library Associates friends group, which include refreshments, the Library uses china and glassware and not paper products.

The Library has also worked as a partner with University Facilities in the reduction of energy use by replacement of many ceiling fixtures in the six-acre four floor Morris Library with new fluorescent low energy lighting which use lower amounts of electricity. Electronic ballast was installed in all overhead fluorescent lighting as well as more efficient light tubes. Compact fluorescent bulbs are also widely used instead of incandescent bulbs. Lighting use is also reduced in library group group study rooms and renovated restrooms by the installation of motion sensing lighting to further reduce energy needed. In addition, suggestions are always welcome as to further sustainability efforts on the part of the Library."

http://www.lib.udel.edu/

Sustainability Actions

The University of Delaware Library works collaboratively with many others at the University to operate in a sustainable manner, and to encourage action on the part of all library users including students, faculty and staff.

Reduction in use of paper

• Leader in provision of electronic information, resulting in sharply reduced number of print journals in favor of electronic journals, to reduce paper used.
• Encourages downloading and emailing electronic research rather than printing to reduce the amount of paper used.
• Avoiding use of paper and plastic in favor of glass and china during events related to library exhibitions and Library friends group receptions.

Recycling

• Paper recycled from all copiers and printers from library users and staff through UD University Facilities
• Cardboard and boxes recycled through UD University Facilities
• Print cartridges recycled by sending to UD Occupational Health & Safety
• Food & beverage containers recycled from Library Commons & Dining Services Bleecker Street through UD Facilities

Lighting & energy saving

• Worked as a partner with University Facilities in the reduction of energy use in the six-acre Morris Library by Replacement of ceiling light ballasts and tubes with lower energy lights.
• Replacement of incandescent lights with fluorescent bulbs
• Print cartridges recycled by sending to UD Occupational Health & Safety
• Installation of motion sensing lighting in renovated group study rooms and restrooms to further reduce energy needed.

The University of Delaware has joined other colleges and universities in supporting these two sustainabiity initiatives:

Association of University Leaders for a Sustainable Future/Talloires Declaration: View a .pdf (20kb)

American University and Presidents Climate Commitment:
Visit the web site