The Green Library
One of the four main focus areas in the Reykjavík City Library’s strategy is to put sustainability at the center of everything we do. We aim to support environmentally friendly projects and events and to take the lead in green solutions.
All eight library branches have received the City of Reykjavík’s fourth Green Step, a recognition for eco‑friendly practices. For many years, the library has worked hard to be an environmentally responsible institution.
Libraries are naturally eco-friendly places—focused on sharing knowledge, information, spaces, and things. In our action plan toward 2028, you can explore what each library is currently working on in this area.
What does it mean to be a green library?
Each of the eight libraries has its own character and approach, but they all share the same goal: to look at everything through an “environmental lens.”
The Freeshop
At Gerðuberg, we run a Free Shop in partnership with Sorpa recycling center. People can bring items to give away and take something home in return. There are also collection bins for broken items. Gerðuberg is also home to a Seed Library, and staff have been experimenting with different kinds of growing projects for several years—something regular visitors will notice. Plant swapping is also part of the Free Shop: you can bring cuttings or plants from home and exchange them for other types. More about the Freeshop.
Swap Markets
Árbær and Sólheimar often host various swap markets. Plant swaps in the spring and gardening‑related workshops are always popular.
Diverse and educational events
Our event programming often focuses on “green” themes. At Árbær, Spöngin, and Úlfarsárdalur, we run a popular event series called Fabrication, where people gather to craft together—usually using recycled or repurposed materials. This emphasis on reuse is also central to children’s craft workshops. More about the Fabrication event series.
In Úlfarsárdalur, we celebrate “Week 17,” an international library initiative that highlights the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The program is built on collaboration between libraries, individuals, and grassroots groups working toward sustainability and social responsibility.
The Future Festival is another great example of a more unconventional approach, offering a space to reflect on how our society might develop in the future. More about the Future Festival.
What is Make‑a‑thek?
The Reykjavík City Library takes part in the European project Make‑a‑thek, which aims to create a space for creative, curious, and mindful consumers. Together, we share knowledge and learn new ways to make better use of clothing and textiles. The project includes a variety of events held in Gerðuberg, Árbær, and Spöngin. More about make-a-thek.
The Seed Library
We encourage anyone with leftover seeds to donate them to our Seed Library and take different seeds home in return, helping to increase biodiversity in home gardens. We offer many events for both children and adults about growing, seed saving, and—most importantly—coming together to share tips and enjoy being part of a community. The Seed Library is available at Gerðuberg, Grófin, and Kringlan. More about the Seed Library.
Hringrásarsafnið | Borrow useful items
At Grófin, Gerðuberg, Kringlan, and Úlfarsárdalur, you’ll find our Tool Library called Hringrásarsafnið in Icelandic, where you can borrow useful tools and equipment—a great alternative to buying items you might only use once or twice. More about Hringrásarsafnið.
Eco‑friendly transportation
We encourage our visitors to use environmentally friendly transportation whenever possible—whether that means walking to the library more often, taking the bus, or car‑sharing.
