San Diego City Wire

San Diego County Library has become the first in California to be designated a “Certified Sustainable Library” through the Sustainable Libraries Initiative’s award-winning Sustainable Library Certification Program. This recognition highlights the library's commitment to environmentally friendly practices and supporting communities in transitioning to a green, carbon-free economy.

“We are incredibly proud to receive the Sustainable Library Certification, a clear reflection of our dedication to environmental stewardship. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of San Diego County and its Board of Supervisors, as well as the collaborative efforts of various County departments,” said Migell Acosta, Director of San Diego County Library.

The county collaborates across departments to enhance sustainable goals addressing climate change. Several library buildings operate on net-zero energy or solar-powered panels, with six branches LEED certified. Other eco-friendly initiatives include planting more trees, adding bottle filling stations for water, and purchasing four new all-electric outreach vehicles.

Eleven county branch libraries offer starter seeds through the Seeds and Sustainability program to promote community gardening and access to home-grown food. To meet diverse community needs, the library provides training for employees from varied backgrounds and encourages their involvement in community activities.

“We also recognize our dedicated staff, whose hard work and commitment have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. Together, we are creating a more sustainable future for our community,” Acosta added.

The library aims to unify San Diego’s diverse community through accessible programs and services such as international holiday celebrations, citizenship classes for immigrants, and voter registration events. It prioritizes social equity by providing access to over 200,000 electronic books, magazines, newspapers, audiobooks available via the Libby app in 15 languages.

Last year, the library received the Little Free Library Outstanding Achievement award. There are currently 53 library-sponsored Little Free Libraries throughout San Diego County with plans to expand this number to 100 by 2025.

Additionally, adults who did not complete high school can earn their diploma online through Library High School. Over 150 diplomas have been awarded so far under this initiative aimed at career building.

As part of public health stewardship efforts during emergencies or extreme heat conditions, all library staff are designated disaster workers. Libraries serve as alternative sites for emergency services when needed and function as Cool Zone sites offering respite from high temperatures.

Looking ahead, San Diego County Library plans further transitions towards greener materials and environmentally friendly practices across more branches.

For more information about San Diego County Library’s initiatives and programs visit their website.

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