Hilliard library branch implements larger paper recycling bins

Libraries have been engaging in earth friendly practices since long before the concept of “going green.” After all, reducing, reusing and recycling are the hallmarks of environmental sustainability and libraries make books available for the entire community to share. But that doesn’t mean Columbus Metropolitan Libraries, including the Hilliard branch, have stopped there.

“We’re always looking to conserve, and right now we’re really big into recycling paper,” said CML marketing director Gregg Dodd.

In December, the Hilliard Branch added large blue recycle bins throughout the building, from the computer area to the back offices. They supplement the small recycle bins that serve as a receptacle for receipts that patrons can choose to print at check out stations. The Hilliard Branch information services manager Erica Cherup estimated that the papers collected daily by the staff can fill the 90-gallon master recycling bin three times per week.

“I think it really comes naturally to our customers and our staff to recycle,” she said. “We got a lot of feedback from people saying that they didn’t want to throw away their papers, receipts and reserve slips so as soon as (the bins) were added, the paper started adding up.”

The larger recycling bins were first suggested by CML’s Green Team, which is made up of representatives from each of the system’s 21 branches. Since 2009, the team has been advocating for environmental practices. Cherup credited the Hilliard Green Team members for implementing aluminum and plastic recycling bins near the library’s vending machines and being part of the campaign to install an automated light system.

The library also encourages residents to find new uses for items that may be in their homes. It accepts books in good condition to add to the collection or to the library sale rack and it also serves as a drop-off location for used eye glasses, which are collected by the Lion’s Club and distributed to those in need.

“We’re very conscious of not being wasteful,” Cherup said. “We do our best to recycle and reuse so much of what comes in.”