Guildford Library Joins the UK’s First Green Library Hubs
- Zero Carbon Guildford
- May 27
- 2 min read
We’re thrilled to announce that Guildford Library has been selected as one of just three libraries in the UK to become a Green Library Hub, thanks to a groundbreaking new programme led by CILIP (the UK’s library and information association) and backed by a £1.2 million grant from The National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund.
This is huge news not just for the library, but for the whole community – especially local sustainability champions like us ZERO Carbon Guildford, Library of Things, HEAT (Home Energy Advice Team) and the Guildford Seed Bank. Their dedication to climate-friendly action helped make this possible, and this recognition is well-deserved.
What’s a Green Library Hub?
The Green Library Hubs programme is all about turning libraries into active centres for local climate action.
Over the next three years, Guildford Library will host:
🌍 Workshops on sustainability and green living
📚 A curated collection of trusted environmental resources
🎨 Creative community programmes on climate and nature
🧠 Events to grow eco-awareness and understanding
🌱 A local network of Green Library Champions
🎉 Annual celebrations during Green Libraries Week
By combining trusted information with local partnerships and inspiring programming, Guildford Library will help more people take positive steps for a greener Guildford.
A Big Step for Surrey
Councillor Denise Turner-Stewart, Deputy Leader of Surrey County Council and Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities, said:
“Guildford Library is perfectly placed to become a leading Green Library Hub, building on its already impressive initiatives such as our Library of Things, eco library cards, tree giveaways, and our seed bank. This funding will allow us to expand our green activities and reach more residents, particularly those in disadvantaged communities. We’re incredibly excited to see the positive impact this project will have across Surrey.”
A Community Effort
Guildford’s new role as a Green Library Hub builds on the momentum of local partnerships already making a difference. From lending tools and reducing waste with the Library of Things, to providing energy advice through HEAT, and nurturing local biodiversity with the Guildford Seed Bank, this is a true community-powered win.
What’s Next?
The Green Library Hubs initiative is just getting started. Guildford joins Camden and Blackburn with Darwen as one of the first three hubs, with seven more to be announced across the UK in the coming years. In total, over 100 library workers will receive specialist training, and thousands of people will benefit from events, resources, and support designed to empower climate action.
We’re proud to see Guildford stepping into a leadership role in this vital movement — and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
Stay tuned for upcoming green events, workshops, and ways to get involved!
🔗 Learn more about the Green Libraries Campaign at www.cilip.org.uk/GreenLibraries
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