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Sustainability

The David and Joyce Milne Public Library strives to  develop initiatives that are environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable.

Our focus is to minimize the library's ecological footprint through initiatives such as energy conservation, recycling, and sustainable purchasing practices.

Sustainability Action Items
  • Heat Pumps: We have heat pumps and mini-splits strategically installed throughout portions of the building to enhance temperature control and improve overall energy efficiency. These systems work to supplement our existing heating and cooling infrastructure, ensuring a more comfortable environment for both patrons and staff. While they have been a valuable addition, further expansion may be necessary to achieve optimal climate regulation across the entire facility.  

  • Solar Panels:  As part of our commitment to sustainability, our library has embraced renewable energy with the installation of solar panels. These panels harness the power of the sun to generate clean, efficient electricity, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and lowering our overall carbon footprint. By integrating solar energy into our operations, we are not only cutting energy costs but also setting an example of environmental stewardship for our community. This initiative reflects our dedication to creating a more sustainable future while continuing to provide vital resources in an eco-friendly space.  

  • Pollinator Garden: Our library is proud to host a dedicated pollinator garden at the entrance of the library. It's a vibrant and flourishing space designed to support bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators. Thanks to the guidance, support, and maintenance from members of the Xerces Society and the Williamstown Garden Club, this garden features a diverse selection of native plants that provide vital food sources and habitat for pollinators throughout the seasons.   

  • Climate Preparedness Week - 

  • Limiting single-use items

    • Providing reusable coffee cups and mugs for our coffee station​

    • Providing instant coffee to limit K-cup waste

    • Providing free, reusable tote bags for patrons

    • Re-using paper for certain printing purposes

  • Composting at the Milne

  • Providing a refillable water bottle fountain

Recycling Bin
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Compost at the Milne!

Our library is happy to partner with Second Chance Composting in hopes of becoming more sustainable. Second Chance Composting's program is free through the David & Joyce Milne Public Library but space is limited. Membership registration is required.


Once registered, Second Chance Composting will email you a contract that must be signed via email. Members get unlimited drop off of household food scraps to our library.

Save your food scraps at home in a food safe container, and at your convenience, bring them to the library. Second Chance accepts any and all food and food scraps. Nothing else should be in their tote.

Come as little or as much as needed.  Please keep this to reasonable daytime hours of approximately 8am-6pm

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