Environmental education in public libraries. Issue 1 (24th January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Devine, Jennie; Appleton, Leo
• Is Part Of: Library management. Volume 44:Issue 1/2(2023)
• Page Start: 152
• Page End: 165
• Publication Date: 2023-01-24
• Subjects: Public libraries -- Sustainable development -- Environmental education; Library administration -- Periodicals; 025.005
• DOI: 10.1108/LM-10-2022-0091
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-5124

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This research aims to investigate effective public library environmental education interventions in order to inform the development of a framework for public libraries. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative research method was developed incorporating surveys and follow-up interviews with librarians working in USA public libraries, who were known to have been involved in environmental education initiatives. Findings: The research determined which environmental education interventions were most likely to lead to action and behaviour change in public library users. The resulting discussion has allowed for the creation of a framework which establishes factors useful for successful implementation of environmental education programmes and activities. These elements include partnership, institutional commitment, inclusion and outreach and practical activities linked to a larger vision. Research limitations/implications: The research participants were limited to those libraries in the USA which were all affiliated with the American Library Association (ALA) Resilient Communities programmes and had received grants. Practical implications: The paper concludes with a framework for implementing environmental education programmes in public libraries. Effective interventions are also shared which provide practical ideas and strategies. Social implications: Providing structure and considerations for establishing an environmental programme enables libraries to build on experiences of other libraries. As climate change action becomes a more pressing issue, providing these interventions supports action. Originality/value: The paper discusses the concepts of environmental education and the role which public libraries can play in this arena, concluding that sustainable development should be treated as a new tenet of librarianship and environmental education as a new research field of library and information science.