Brownell is working to make sustainability a cornerstone of our operation. Sustainability is a key focus of our 2026-2030 strategic plan, working to “foster a balanced and environmentally conscious organizational culture by clarifying goals, tasks, and internal boundaries, while aligning staffing, community support, and fiscal responsibility”

We are also working towards our certificate in the Sustainable Libraries Initiative. This initiative works toward “empowering library leaders to advance environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically feasible practices to intentionally address climate change and co-create thriving communities.”. We are 51% of the way through the program.

There are many ways for the public to participate and take advantage of this work. The library participates in a battery recycling program that allows patrons to drop off their old batteries. There are also ongoing and seasonal swaps for puzzles, sewing patterns, yarn, fabric, costumes, and toys and we host a Repair Cafe twice a year. 

Brownell is a Battery Network battery recycling drop off location

Batteries must be in good condition, no corrosion or damage.

Batteries should be in a bag and then placed in the drop off box. AA and AAA one use batteries do not have to go in individual bags

We can accept batteries weighing 11 lbs (5 kgs) or less, and cellphones (with or without their batteries) in the box.
The Battery Network program does not accept wet cell batteries.
Rechargeable batteries
• Lithium Ion (Li-Ion)
• Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd)
• Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
• Nickel Zinc (Ni-Zn)
• Small Sealed Lead Acid (SSLA/Pb)
Single-use (such as alkaline)*
• AA, AAA, 9V, C, D and button cells
• Lithium primary

More information can be found on the The Battery Network website

C.R.E.W – Communities Responding to Extreme Weather

Brownell Library is a CREW-certified Climate Resilience Hub

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

As climate change makes extreme weather worse and less predictable, emergency services are increasingly overstretched. Climate Resilience Hubs prepare residents before emergencies strike, so that residents are equipped and know what to do. 

WHAT DO WE PROVIDE? 

All hubs are expected to: 

Display the Climate Resilience Hub window decal 

Have brochures about extreme weather preparedness available to their patrons 

Organize at least one yearly educational event about emergency preparedness. 

Learn more at www.climatecrew.org