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Surrey Libraries introduce biodegradable eco library cards

All 52 libraries will move to fully biodegradable library cards

Promoting environmental sustainability, Surrey Libraries is launching eco library cards! This exciting, environmentally friendly action coincides with the celebration of Green Libraries Week (2 to 8 October 2023), a nationwide event that highlights the importance of sustainability in library settings.

Surrey Libraries has printed 60,000 new eco cards as a result of signing the Green Libraries Manifesto 2023. Residents can visit their local library to sign up to become a member and pick up a new eco library card.

What is an eco library card?

Crafted from environmentally friendly materials, these cards not only reduce waste but also contribute to the preservation of our planet. By opting for these compostable and recyclable cards, library-goers become part of a growing movement to protect the environment and foster sustainable practices.

30,000 of the 60,000 library cards printed have been designed by the winners of last year's Surrey Culture Explorer Passport Challenge. The winning four limited edition designs were chosen by Library managers and staff.

The benefits of eco library card

Beyond their eco-friendly composition, these innovative library cards serve as a helpful reminder for those who use the library to adopt sustainable habits in their everyday lives. Additionally, the use of biodegradable materials ensures that these cards will break down naturally, preventing unnecessary waste and pollution.

Residents can visit their local library to sign up to become a member and pick up a new eco library card. However some libraries may still have stock of our older plastic cards that may be offered instead so that they are used up first before moving over to new eco cards.

If you are a current member with an older plastic card, we encourage you to use this card until it needs replacing in order to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. However, members who have lost their card will be able to buy one of the new eco cards as a replacement as per the library lost card policy.

Join the Green Libraries movement

As part of Green Libraries Week, two Library of Things will be launching in Godalming and Haslemere. These Libraries will contain household items that people might require infrequently, for example; certain garden tools, sewing machines, tents and carpet cleaners.

The idea is that you can borrow or hire items rather than purchase them, with the aim to reduce both carbon emissions and waste going to landfill. Both are being delivered in partnership with local charities, Godalming Library with What Next and Haslemere Library with Love Haslemere Hate Waste.

Library of Things will take place in:

  • Godalming Library, Wednesday 4 October, 3pm to 4.30pm
  • Haslemere Library, Friday 6 October, 1pm to 3pm

In keeping with the green theme, libraries across the county will be hosting a variety of free and low cost events to mark Green Libraries Week that cater for all age groups. From talks by best-selling authors, to themed Rhymetime sessions, fun and creative children's activities such as making bug hotels and seed planting that encourages awareness and action towards a greener planet.

To find out more about activities and events taking place during Green Libraries week visit the Surrey Libraries web pages.

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