The social sustainability improvement strategy for supporting the green library concept at Taman Ismail Marzuki library

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to describe and examine the strategy used by the Taman Ismail Marzuki Library for increasing its social sustainability capabilities.Design/methodology/approachThe research questions in this study are (1) What is the TIM Library’s social sustainability strategy for supporting the green library concept? and (2) What are the impediments and facilitators to implementing the green library concept in the TIM Library through a social sustainability process? This study adopted a qualitative approach, using a case study method, in research conducted over the period July–November 2022. The data collection methods used were purposive sampling, interviews, observations and document analysis.FindingsThis study’s findings indicate that the TIM library’s social sustainability strategy supports economic sustainability up to the independence stage, whereas environmental sustainability is still at the empowerment stage. The green library concept is sustainable due to the library’s commitment to the “third place” concept and library cooperation. The TIM Library’s continuing strategy to use creative community development programs to attract public interest and change the library’s perception in the community should help it realize the green library concept.Practical implicationsLibraries can use the research findings to guide their strategies for community engagement and inclusivity.Social implicationsThe paper suggests that policymakers supporting libraries can consider incorporating elements of the Green Library concept and community development stages into policies to enhance the societal impact of libraries.Originality/valueThe significance of this study is that it uncovers strategies to help public libraries meet the requirements of the green library concept.