Sustainable Living Locally: Books!

What happened to sitting down with a good book? The Kindle, electronic books for download on iTunes, and now the iPad seem to quickly be replacing a good old paperback book. Yet with this frenzy of electronics come both benefits and disadvantages for the ethical consumer. In theory, these e-solutions use less materials such as paper and ink, yet their energy consumption, e-waste, and possible negative health impacts are negatively impacting our social and ecological system. Sustainable living is a complicated journey, so here are some tips if you decide that nothing replaces a good old book.

First, the library is not outdated. Say it with me, the library is a source for new and up to date information as well as a chest of old goodies. Checking out and reading library books is an easy step that is free and reuses books on a quick and organized schedule. As a kid, I remember the library being a mysterious building with an incomprehensible amount of knowledge bundled inside. Now, we view the internet as a vast information overload, where you can find what you need and thousands of web pages of things don't. As a sustainable living enthusiast, I have decided to reverse my trend of internet reliance and dig back into the efficient library system and have been pleased to uncover some old gems in the bookshelves.

Now you have heard of clothes swaps, but what about book swaps? There are programs set-up so that book clubs can actually swap books, meaning everyone only buys one book a year! Now as a book club benefactor, I have received many a wonderful read from my mother's post-book club books, but I could just as easily check these out at the library. Purchasing books monthly, or more often if you are an avid reader, can get pricey. What if you're not in a book club? Try a friend's book swap. You pick one of your favorite books as should each of your friends. Design a circle to pass the books along with a one month maximum reading time. Then just keep passing.

What if you want to read something that no one has yet and the line at the library is just too long? Try Indiebound.org. There is a search engine to find local bookstores in your area that are independently owned, supporting your local economy. For every $100 USD spent at a local business, $68 USD stays in the local economy. The number drops to $43 USD and lower for national chain stores. This particular organization actually allows the listing of independently owned local businesses as well. What does this mean for the sustainable living types? Less travel, less packaging, more jobs, and a revitalized local economy. Their model suits the "think globally, act locally" mantra quite well.

With our eagerness to be on the 'next wave' of technology and innovation, we may have forgotten some of our great ideas! Libraries, local economies, and book swaps are a quick way to up your sustainable living points and save yourself money.

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