I'm Janet Wagner and I volunteer for the "Green Library Network" and "Libraries4Future", among others. Both are networks in which library staff and interested parties are committed to climate and resource protection. For me, libraries are important players in the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Libraries are primarily important places of learning for research and teaching. However, they can also be a source of ideas that can surprise and innovate users.

This is also how the electricity-generating bicycle came to the library.

I have been working at the Philological Library of Freie Universität Berlin since 2013. In addition to my library duties, I also head the "GreenFUBib" working group, which has been working on the topic of sustainability in everyday library life since 2021.

Together with the dedicated team of the "GreenFUBib" group, we are trying to find ways in which all library locations with their approx. 450 employees can support the climate emergency goals. There are many possibilities.

But it also takes perseverance and the ability to maintain your own enthusiasm. In the university administration, I had to see who could support me. The first hurdles, such as occupational health and safety, the feasible location or legal issues can then be overcome.

It's important to network with others who can help you. To do this, you need to be able to formulate and present your idea. Your own conviction is a "must have" that motivates and at the same time helps to realize an idea.

What I would like to see are ideas from students who bring a "fresh" perspective to Freie Universität. In these extremely difficult times of crisis and inequality, to have the courage and enthusiasm to get involved locally and get involved in terms of sustainable development and self-efficacy. "Take action!"