If you build it, will they sort it? Compost collection in the academic library learning commons
| Pages | 340-351 |
| Published date | 08 August 2016 |
| Date | 08 August 2016 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-04-2016-0026 |
| Author | Uta Hussong-Christian |
| Subject Matter | Library & information science,Librarianship/library management,HR in libraries,Library strategy,Library promotion |
If you build it, will they
sort it? Compost collection
in the academic library
learning commons
Uta Hussong-Christian
Oregon State University Libraries and Press, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
Abstract
Purpose –The purpose of this paper is to share one uncommon way that an academic library moved
toward more sustainable library operations and to share lessons learned in the implementation of a
compost collection program in an academic library.
Design/methodology/approach –Case study.
Findings –The right collaboration is critical to successfully implementing a library composting
program and challenges like working around supply purchasing hurdles, reducing contamination in
the collection bins, and working out appropriate assessment techniques may be encountered.
Practical implications –Academic libraries can implement compost collections program if the
proper infrastructure exists and the appropriate partnerships are established.
Social implications –Academic libraries can be leaders in sustainable building operations and
provide learning opportunities for the entire campus and surrounding community.
Originality/value –Very little published literature exists on implementing composting program in
libraries of any kind. This case study helps to build that body of literature.
Keywords Collaboration, Sustainability, Academic library, Recycling, Compost, Learning commons
Paper type Case study
Introduction
At Oregon State University (OSU), we work to “make people healthier and communities
stronger”(Oregon State University, n.d.). One way to achieve this goal of long-term
health and resilience is by being better stewards of our current resources to ensure their
availability to future generations. This very simple definition covers the environmental
aspect of sustainability, but other key aspects of sustainability include economy and
equity. Commonly referred to as the three Es, this three-pronged approach was
presented in the landmark report, Our Common Future (World Commission on
Environment and Development, 1987).
In its work and operations, Oregon State University Libraries and Press (OSULP)
(2015) is guided by core values, one of which is sustainability. These values inform how
we deal with the resources we have. Libraries often define resources in terms of
collectionsor budgets. But what is commonly consideredas waste can also be a resource.
For example, at OSULP’sValleyLibrary –as elsewhere on campus and across the globe
–“waste”paper and cardboard is diverted from landfill-bound trash and gathered for
Library Management
Vol. 37 No. 6/7, 2016
pp. 340-351
©Emerald Group Publishing Limited
0143-5124
DOI 10.1108/LM-04-2016-0026
Received 18 April 2016
Revised 15 June 2016
Accepted 6 July 2016
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at:
www.emeraldinsight.com/0143-5124.htm
The author deeply appreciates the significant contributions of the following individuals in the
implementation of the Valley Library learning commons compost collection program: Chelsea
Alexander (OSU Student Sustainability Initiative), Victoria Heiduschke (OSU Libraries & Press),
Zac Laugheed (OSU Libraries & Press), Andrea Norris (OSU Campus Recycling), and Kristin
Swetland (OSU Libraries & Press).
340
LM
37,6/7
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