HomeMy WebLinkAboutMaeve ClarkWhat does sustainability mean to you?
Environmental sustainability is creating conditions
where humans and nature can exist in productive
harmony to support present and future genera-
tions.
How is sustainability incorporated
into your position?
As Coordinator of Adult Services, one of my roles is to work with staff to
develop and present programs often in partnership with other organizations,
agencies or individuals. Sustainability is a frequent focus of our programming at
all levels in the library.
What actions have you taken to improve sustainability
within your position?
In 2009, the Iowa City Public Library and the Iowa City Landfill and Recycling
Center were awarded a Public Library Innovation Grant funded through the
International City/County Management Association in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The goal of the
grant was to enhance the quality of life for residents by improving the environmental sustainability of the community. During
the 18 months of the grant, the Library expanded its role as a community information center to educate and engage citizens
on the benefits of urban storm water management, urban composting, local food, energy conservation, and smart waste
disposal. Using books, online databases, and other library resources, including the website and cable television channel, the
Library and the Recycling Center offered workshops and other hands-on events in conjunction with many community part-
ners to encourage Iowa Citians through a variety of programming initiatives to take actions aimed at increasing the sustaina-
bility of a “green” earth. The Library and the Recycling Center, as well as other agencies and organizations, have continued
their partnerships in presenting educational and hands-on programming on sustainability. The Library’s collection also contin-
ues to support the community in providing informational resources.
In your opinion, what can be done to improve sustainability within our community?
The Iowa City Public Library will continue to be an information center for the public on all aspects of sustainability. In this
role, the Library will provide resources for the public to learn more about sustainability and be
a central location for programs and meetings. I see the Library as a catalyst for learning and
action.
For more information about the City of Iowa City’s sustainability efforts, visit
www.icgov.org/sustainability, subscribe to our Sustainable Iowa City newsletter at
www.icgov.org/e-subscriptions, or follow #SustainableIC on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Sustainability Spotlight:
Maeve Clark
Adult Services Coordinator, Iowa City Public Library