All 52 libraries will move to fully biodegradable library cards
Promoting environmental sustainability, Surrey Libraries has launched eco library cards! This exciting, environmentally friendly action coincided with the celebration of Green Libraries Week (2 to 8 October 2023), a nationwide event that highlights the importance of sustainability in library settings.
Surrey Libraries has printed 60,000 new eco cards as a result of signing the Green Libraries Manifesto 2023. Residents can visit their local library to sign up to become a member and pick up a new eco library card.
What is an eco library card?
Crafted from environmentally friendly materials, these cards not only reduce waste but also contribute to the preservation of our planet. By opting for these compostable and recyclable cards, library-goers become part of a growing movement to protect the environment and foster sustainable practices.
30,000 of the 60,000 library cards printed have been designed by the winners of last year's Surrey Culture Explorer Passport Challenge. The winning four limited edition designs were chosen by Library managers and staff.
The benefits of eco library card
Beyond their eco-friendly composition, these innovative library cards serve as a helpful reminder for those who use the library to adopt sustainable habits in their everyday lives. Additionally, the use of biodegradable materials ensures that these cards will break down naturally, preventing unnecessary waste and pollution.
Residents can visit their local library to sign up to become a member and pick up a new eco library card. However some libraries may still have stock of our older plastic cards that may be offered instead so that they are used up first before moving over to new eco cards.
If you are a current member with an older plastic card, we encourage you to use this card until it needs replacing in order to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. However, members who have lost their card will be able to buy one of the new eco cards as a replacement as per the library lost card policy.