Book Disposal Practices in the US

The purpose of this study is to investigate and address a critical issue within public libraries in the United States: the environmental impact of book waste disposal. With the growing global concern for sustainability and environmental conservation, it is imperative to assess and mitigate the significant contribution of public libraries to landfill waste, particularly in the form of discarded books. By quantifying the amount of book waste generated by libraries and examining the existing disposal methods, this research aims to shed light on the extent of the problem and identify sustainable solutions. Additionally, the study seeks to understand librarians' attitudes, knowledge, and barriers related to book waste reduction. Through surveys and interviews, this research strives to provide actionable insights that can inform decision-makers in libraries and contribute to the development of environmentally responsible practices in the field. Ultimately, the study's purpose is to promote sustainability and reduce our carbon footprint.