A Sustainable Library

Our Commitment

Surrey Libraries will support actions that ensure a resilient and sustainable community.

In May 2024, the Board of Trustees approved the Library’s Sustainability Policy, which means sustainability is reflected in the Library’s core values, policies, and actions.

The Library will complete the Sustainable Libraries Certification in 2025.

Our Progress

The Library shows its commitment to our sustainability goals with a wide range of actions.  Here are some of the actions we have taken.

Offering waste bins for organics, recycling and garbage with signs in multiple languages.
Donating books to Big Brothers and non-profit organizations.
Prioritizing the Zero Waste Hierarchy when purchasing supplies.
Training staff on how to take sustainable actions at work.
Using recyclable receipt paper.
Planting pollinator-friendly gardens at Clayton Library and soon-to-be City Centre Library.
Working with the City of Surrey to make our buildings more energy efficient.
Supporting the City of Surrey’s Climate Change Action Strategy
Prioritizing green building rating systems in new buildings such as City Centre branch (LEED Gold), Semiahmoo branch (LEED Silver) and Clayton branch (Passive House certified).
Consulting with the Indigenous Services Coordinator to ensure Indigenous perspectives are part of the Library's sustainability efforts.
Hosting Indigenous programs and doing outreach to Indigenous communities.
Offsetting staff and public paper usage through Printreleaf.