Thank you to everyone who attended our August Sustainability Special Interest Group meeting. Attached above are the notes, including highlights from Sophia's presentation on SLI resources.
Our next meeting will be Wednesday, October 14th @ 2:00 and we'll have some great things to talk about!
 Sustainability SIG October 14th Discussion Topics
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Solar Panels for Libraries: Resource Guide
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We are looking for resources, tips for talking to administration, or anything that may be helpful for libraries just starting to consider solar as an option. If you've had solar panels installed at your library, what are some things you've learned or wish you knew before the project started?
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I'll compile a polished version for the group to go over at our October meeting!
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Sustainable Swag: How do we get rid of the "junk"?
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Staff Buy-In: How do we talk to administration/co-workers about sustainability? How can we get our own organization on board internally?
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Ideas Share: What projects/programs/initiatives have you been working on?
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Sustainable Libraries Initiative
Interested in making your library more sustainable? Join us for two free introductory webinars through WLA's partnership with the Sustainable Libraries Initiative (SLI)!
Whether you're just beginning to explore sustainability or are ready to learn more about becoming a Certified Sustainable Library, these sessions are a great place to start.
Introduction to the Sustainable Libraries Initiative
September 9
2:30 p.m. CT
Introduction to the Sustainable Library Certification Program
September 23
2:30 p.m. CT
These webinars will introduce you to the resources and opportunities available through WLA's partnership with SLI and help you discover how sustainability can strengthen your library and community.
Learn more and register:
• Introduction to the Sustainable Libraries Initiative September 9th
• Introduction to the Sustainable Library Certification Program September 23
We hope you'll join us to learn more about this valuable member benefit!
Dear WLA Members,
I’m excited to share some big news about a new partnership that reflects both our values and our future.
The Wisconsin Library Association is now an official partner of the Sustainable Libraries Initiative (SLI)—a national organization dedicated to helping libraries lead in sustainability, resilience, and community impact.
This partnership connects Wisconsin libraries to a growing national movement and provides you with practical tools to turn your values into action in your library and community.
As a WLA member, you now have access to a range of exclusive benefits:
One free year of SLI membership
WLA members who opt in receive a full year of SLI membership at no cost.
Access to tools, resources, and best practices
You’ll gain access to a robust library of sustainability resources, including:
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Hundreds of peer-tested best practices
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Program ideas and case studies
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A vetted vendor list
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A custom CO₂ calculator to measure and reduce your library’s environmental impact
Professional development & learning opportunities
Explore recorded trainings, webinars, and continuing education focused on sustainability, leadership, and community resilience.
A national community of practice
Join a network of library professionals across the country who are working together to address climate challenges and strengthen their communities.
Discounted certification program
Receive a 20% discount on the Sustainable Library Certification Program (SLCP), or 25% off for cohorts of five or more, helping your library build a structured, impactful sustainability plan.
Tools to tell your story
Access customizable publicity materials to help share your sustainability work and impact with your community.
This partnership is about more than resources—it’s about positioning Wisconsin libraries as leaders in shaping resilient, thriving communities. Sustainability in libraries isn’t just environmental; it’s about social equity, economic feasibility, and long-term community wellbeing.
We’re proud to bring these tools and opportunities to you and to support the incredible work already happening across our state.
Ready to get started?
Learn more with our WLA Partnership Dashboard or by reaching out to [email protected].
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