As a part of the Human Information Interaction (LIBR 506) class, my classmate Jordyn Zirk & I came up with the idea of Green Lifestyle Workshops for a rural library to illustrate programming planning skills and understanding a specific audience; in this case, rural patrons in Fernie, BC.
We presented this in class in multiple 10 minute presentation to classmates in a science fair style set up.
From our research paper:
"This team will be designing Green Lifestyle Workshops to promote simple living practices in rural communities. Our definition of a green lifestyle through simple living is consistently making eco-conscious decisions in your home and with your purchases, in order to minimize the impact of your daily habits. We believe that non-traditional programming in a public library is the perfect link to connect rural communities and the green practices that have previously been unexplored. Many rural populations have not been part of the traditional environmental movement in the past, and we see a need to reach out to these new audiences (Benedict & McMahon, 2006). Woodland’s research on the library’s ability to spread environmental conservation efforts included the belief that, “libraries are the center of the school and community and should therefore be the forerunners in the drive for creating good environmental stewards” (Woodland, 2010, p. 241).
Our proposal for Green Lifestyle Workshops will include 6 workshops on varying “green” subjects. The workshops will be held once a month for six months at the public library. “As global awareness, and in particular, sustainable development, continues to grow in importance, the public library can position itself to play a central role in a community’s effort to promote sustainable development initiatives” (Brown, 1998, p 8). Our larger goal is to increase awareness in rural communities about environmentalism, inspire interest, and create discussion about green living practices through our creative programming (Brown, 1998)."
Benedict, M. A., & McMahon, E. T. (2006). Green infrastructure: Linking landscapes and communities. Washington, DC: Island Press. p. xiii
Brown, J. (1998). Local Libraries: Global Awareness: A Librarian's Guide to Global Programming for a Sustainable Future. American Libraries, 29(6), 1-16.
Woodland, J. (2010). ‘Greening’ Up the Library. Community & Junior College Libraries, 16(4), 241-246.
Highlighted Programming: Breadmaking & Canning Jam