​The Environmental Benefits of Using plastic Coverings on Library Books

The Environmental Benefits of Using plastic Coverings on Library Books

At the Book Cover Co we are always interested in the reduction of wastage and environmental impact.  While there are very valid concerns about the use of plastics, protecting library books with plastic coverings is a practical strategy that offers significant environmental benefits compared to frequently replacing damaged books. 

I personally own books many decades old which would not have survived without a plastic covering, and see children's books survive rough handling and soiling which would ruin an uncovered book.

1. Reduction in Resource Consumption

• Manufacturing Process: Producing a book involves the use of various resources, including paper, ink, and binding materials. The process also consumes energy and water and generates emissions. By extending the lifespan of books through protective coverings, libraries can reduce the frequency of manufacturing new books, thereby conserving these resources.
• Covering Materials: The materials used for covering films are typically less resource-intensive than producing a whole new book. Even though plastic coverings require some resources, their overall environmental footprint can be significantly lower.
• Transport and shipping: Books are heavy for their size and replacement means transporting them, often internationally, through various local and international depots and handlers.

2. Waste Minimization

• Landfill Impact: Damaged books that cannot be repaired often end up in landfills, contributing to waste. Protecting books with plastic coverings can greatly reduce the number of books discarded annually, thereby minimizing landfill waste. Even when recycled, the outer cover of a book must be removed first.
• Resource Efficiency: Using coverings helps in making the most out of the existing books, ensuring that the initial investment in resources to produce them is fully utilized over a longer period.

3. Energy Conservation

• Production Energy: The production of new books requires substantial energy for activities like printing, binding, and transportation. By extending the life of current books, libraries can cut down on the energy needed for these processes.
• Operational Energy: The energy used in the operational aspects of replacing books (e.g., ordering, cataloging, and shelving new books) can also be reduced.

4. Sustainability in Library Operations

• Cost Efficiency: From an economic standpoint, investing in protective coverings is a cost-effective measure. The savings from not having to frequently replace books can be redirected towards other sustainable initiatives within the library. Covering a book will cost only a small fraction of the cost of replacement.
• Environmental Stewardship: Libraries serve as community leaders in education and sustainability. By adopting protective measures like adhesive coverings, they can demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship, influencing patrons and other institutions to consider sustainable practices.

5. Enhanced Durability and Usability

• Prolonged Usability: Plastic coverings protect books from common forms of damage such as spills, tears, and general wear and tear. This ensures that books remain in good condition and usable for a longer time, reducing the need for replacements.
• Preservation of Rare and Valuable Books: For rare, out-of-print, or valuable editions, non adhesive archival plastic coverings are crucial in preserving these irreplaceable resources, ensuring their availability for future generations without the need for reprinting or restoration.

In summary, the use of adhesive coverings for library books is a more environmentally friendly option than replacing damaged books. This approach conserves resources, minimizes waste, saves energy, promotes sustainability, and ensures the longevity and usability of books. Libraries adopting this practice can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also set a positive example for sustainable resource management.