Earth Day is Every Day at the Library

Published on April 22, 2025

By Allie

Using the library is an easy yet effective way to lower waste, save money, and help out the Earth. 

Whether you check out physical items, digital books, or something from our special collections, you make a positive impact.

Imagine a single library book. Let’s say it costs $20 and it gets checked out by 100 people. That’s $2,000 saved with just one item—not to mention the resources it takes to manufacture the book. Now imagine thousands of people sharing thousands of books throughout their lifetimes. Talk about making a difference!

Did you know? Your library card keeps track of how much money you save by checking out physical items. Ask your library staff to look up the amount you've saved!

Of course, you shouldn’t feel guilty about purchasing books. You may want to support a favorite author or keep a beloved story on hand. But using the library is a great way to try before you buy. 

Digital items also go a long way toward making a positive environmental impact. Download Libby and hoopla to access thousands of ebooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines, music, and more. No paper, no shipping, no trip to the bookstore. 

Besides books, there are other ways to save time, money, and energy with Siouxland Libraries’ special collections:

Power Check Meters and Draft Check Meters

With one of our Xcel Energy meters, you can identify your most energy-consuming appliances or determine whether you have a draft. Borrow these meters to learn how you can make your home more energy efficient.

Book Club to Go bags

Instead of buying new books every month for your book club, borrow them! Each Book Club to Go bag includes 12 copies of the same book and a discussion guide. There are over one hundred titles to choose from, and reservations can be made up to one year in advance.  

Adventure Kits, Discovery Kits, and Reading Kits

Enhance your child’s learning by checking out a kit designed for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Develop specific reading skills, explore STEM at home, or enjoy a selection of themed books, games, and activities.

Toy Lending Library

Kids grow up so fast—and they grow out of toys even faster. Why not borrow toys instead? The Toy Lending Library is an organization that provides bins of toys for families to borrow and enjoy—for free. Each bin is curated for age-appropriate toys ranging from 0 to 5 years old. Visit any Siouxland Libraries branch or Toy Lending Library locations to check out a bin.

On behalf of the planet, thank you for using the library!