Green Initiatives for Sustainable Libraries: a Case Study from Postgraduate Institute of Medicine Library

Abstract

Environmental sustainability is a major concern in academic institutions around the world at present. The libraries strive to minimize their ecological footprint to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) introduced by the United Nations. The Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM) Library at the University of Colombo targeted this study for the improvement of operational sustainability and encouragement responsible resource usage. This study aims to investigate the sustainability practices of the PGIM Library, with an emphasis on digital transformation and ecologically responsible operations. The research, which used a qualitative case study methodology, was based on the author’s professional experience and was reinforced by a thorough analysis of scholarly works, institutional policy papers, and sustainable library development strategies. The library had launched several important projects, including online leave and vehicle request systems and the usage of Microsoft Teams for internal document processing and communication. The collection and preservation of digital soft copies of postgraduate medical and dental trainees’ theses, dissertations, case studies, and portfolios was a noteworthy contribution. These were stored on the safe digital system of the library and made available to authorized users, which allowed easy retrieval while drastically cutting down on the amount of paper used. Additionally, the library had embraced the Koha Integrated Library System (ILS) for classification and circulation based on NLM and MeSH standards, and it had digitized the academic holdings. Paper usage was further reduced by email-based services such as user communication and article request process. Plagiarism detecting software was also utilized to ensure that submitted work maintains academic integrity. Energy-saving techniques, trash management procedures, and encouragement of a paperless environment were examples of complementary green practices. Future call for the sustainable implementation features, rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient lighting, even though architectural redesigns were not yet completed. It was also noticed that a formal sustainability strategy will be created and that user education initiatives on green information practices would be implemented. The findings affirm that strategic digital adoption and sustainable policies can reduce environmental impact while improving academic access. These practices align with SDG 4, 9, 12, and 13, positioning the PGIM Library as a replicable model for academic libraries in developing countries.