Designing and Introducing ‘GREEN’ model to lead Sri Lankan university library system towards green library concept: with special reference to the library, University of Kelaniya.

Abstract

As community centers and knowledge hubs, going green has become a great concern in every field including the libraries. Although some green implementations can be evident in some libraries in Sri Lanka, they are not been systematically functioned. This is an extension of previous researches related to green library concept which followed the research framework with five major areas namely, library building, operations and practices programmes and services, information systems and library collection. Those five areas wer~ covered by 23 indicators. Therefore, designing and introducing a green library model was a current necessity for Sri Lankan library system to regulate their green movements. On the other hand, primitive attention has been given on designing a green library model for universities in many countries including Sri Lanka. Therefore, the sole objective was to design and introduce a green library model for the library, university of Kelaniya which is known as the first state green university in Sri Lanka to go green. After identifying existing green features through self-observation, green implementations which are possible to be practiced in the library were identified and defined through the interviews had with sectional heads of the library. Accordingly, the model was named as 'GREEN' indicating green library practices. The indicators for respective letters depicting G- Gardening, R-Resource sharing, E-Efficiency, E-Environmental friendliness, N-Natural resources. Each factor includes related green implementations which can be practically functioned in the library at present condition. The followings could be identified as the conspicuous, existing green features at present. Indoor and outdoor gardening were concerned in category one. Resource sharing means resource sharing through digital platforms, minimizes physical visits, purchasing, sharing and promoting more e-resources. Efficiency stands for efficient use of office stationery, efficient use of machinery items and equipment, efficient use of telecommunication equipment or having verbal communication and use of cyberspace. Besides energy sources such as water, electricity should be effectively used and a water purifying system as well as a rainwater harvesting facility can be implemented. Under environmental friendliness, Waste management including reduction of plastic, polythene, papers and processes such as composting, recycling papers were highlighted. Natural resources criterium includes the maximum use of natural daylight, air, ventilation to enhance the interior quality and user convenience, local purchasing, energy saving practices, purchasing LCD monitors, LED bulbs etc. in addition to the existing indicators, new possible green implementations could be recommended to be practiced in the library. If this GREEN model was followed and practiced, the green concept can be systemically practiced in the library. As a result, the library can be nominated as a green library in near future.