Josh Alexander

This Annual Sustainability Progress Report for 2022-2023 outlines Columbia University's advancements in its ten-year sustainability plan, Plan 2030. The report details progress across key areas including campus energy decarbonization, transportation emission reductions through EV expansion and train travel, sustainable design and construction practices, and responsible materials management with a focus on zero waste. The university is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner, guided by science-based targets and an institutional approach to embedding sustainability.

The primary goal of the meeting was to discuss the students' current library experience and future planning concerning the return to campus following the COVID-19 outage. Key discussion points included current research material needs, with students noting challenges accessing digitized archives and reformulating dissertation plans. The general experience finding and using online resources was rated relatively positively, though technical issues with Simply-E and GIS data server access were mentioned. There was significant discussion regarding 'course reserves,' including low student awareness of the service and the challenges faculty face in adapting materials for remote access, such as films. Students also shared what they missed most about the physical libraries, citing dedicated workspace, the opportunity for serendipitous discovery in the stacks, and social/intellectual togetherness. Discussions about returning to campus focused on safety measures, such as the feasibility of social distancing, mandatory face masks, staggered entry, and implementing person-in/person-out counts. A debate ensued over prioritizing the reopening of open stacks versus open study rooms.

Key discussion topics included student requests for extended library hours in Burke and SEL, and consideration of making the SIPA library graduate student only during specific hours. Updates were provided on the water bottle refill station orders, which are expected to be installed by fall 2015 in Butler and SEL. The committee addressed the issue of 'camping' (reserving seats while absent) and discussed potential solutions, such as creating a Library Code of Conduct or better integrating the campus Density application. Additionally, the review of the 'Talk Zone' pilot in Butler indicated little change in room culture, suggesting future strategies like rebranding the space as a 'lounge' or better advertising to new students. Mobile-charging stations have arrived and are expected to be deployed in Butler and the Science & Engineering Library soon.

Key discussion topics included an update on the successful installation and operation of water filling stations in several libraries. The council addressed food policy suggestions, noting ongoing conversations regarding policy abuse in reading rooms and the need for better space labeling. Updates were provided on the installation of rubber treads for the SEL stairs. Re-branding of the 'Talk Zone' to 'group study' is planned based on student feedback. Discussions also covered integrating the Density app's API with the Study Spaces Open Now feature for real-time study location information. An overview of the Libraries' Strategic Directions process was given, inviting student feedback. Concerns raised by GSAS students included procedures for applying for carrels and graduate student print quotas for teaching assignments. Action items were established regarding documenting carrel application rules and supporting student printing needs.

The meeting covered several key discussion points. Updates included the Libraries partnering with Counseling and Psychology Services for student distress response among staff, and plans for upcoming procrastination and mindfulness workshops. Recommendations involved using TAs as introductory resources and changing the Butler cafe vendor and aligning its hours with the Circulation desk. A major topic concerned artwork in the Libraries under the "Commit to Inclusion" Strategic Direction, noting that current portraits seem intimidating while student-curated exhibits are well-received. Discussions also covered 'Performing the Library!' events and the 'The Mural Project' to feature student artwork on Butler bulletin boards. Finally, the Butler Banner Project was reviewed, focusing on historical demonstrations and proposals for rotating displays of figures coinciding with commemorative months to enhance inclusivity on the facade.