Find out about how libraries are supporting green initiatives in Surrey
Here are five ways Surrey Libraries are keeping it green and sustainable this summer.
Guildford Library Green Library Hub
We are thrilled to announce that Guildford Library has been chosen as one of only ten libraries across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to become a pioneering Green Hub.
The groundbreaking Green Library Hubs programme is set to run from September 2025 to August 2028. The initiative is funded by a substantial grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.
As a Green Library Hub, Guildford Library will:
- become a community space where people can learn about the environment and attend related events
- help people understand the climate crisis better by focusing on how it affects our local area
- support and foster partnerships with local schools and environmental organisations to make a bigger impact together
- train library staff to become more knowledgeable about environmental issues and better support the community
The funding will also enable the library to build upon successful existing Green Library initiatives by delivering a funded programme of outreach and activities.
Living Knowledge Network
Surrey Libraries are now part of the Living Knowledge Network. This gives library members access to a vast array of cultural events within their local library, including:
- exhibitions
- screenings
- talks
- livestreams to watch from home
This summer, Surrey Libraries will be hosting a British Library Living Knowledge Network exhibition called ‘Unearthed’, which explores the transformative power of gardening, tracing personal stories alongside global histories. Visit our dedicated webpage for dates and locations.
Summer Reading Challenge
This year’s theme is ‘Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors’. It aims to encourage children to explore the magical connection between storytelling and nature.
The Summer Reading Challenge is aimed at primary school aged children. However children and teens of all ages can sign up for free at their local library from Saturday 5 July. The goal is to read up to 6 books before Saturday 13 September.
Children will need to be library members to participate. Joining the library is free and can be done online or in your local branch.
Borrow Bikes – coming soon
Ashford and Chertsey libraries will soon open new bike shelters that will allow library members over 18 to borrow a bike for free! Keep an eye on our Borrow Bikes webpage for more information on our free bike loan scheme.
Biodegradable library cards
Did you know you can opt for biodegradable library cards? These recyclable and compostable cards reduce waste and contribute to the preservation of our planet. Opt for one today and become part of a growing movement to foster sustainable practices.