Sustainability & the Environment

The library’s 56-year-old seating on the main and top floors recently underwent a complete reupholstery makeover. By retaining the original furniture frames and focusing solely on fabric replacement, this project significantly reduced the need for new materials, helping to conserve natural resources. The team of library faculty and staff selected eco-friendly fabrics featuring a low environmental impact, durability, and stylish appearance. The renewed chairs are free of PFOA & PFOS and are Greenguard Gold Certified, ensuring a high standard of environmental and health safety. Not only did this project refresh the library’s aesthetic, but it will offer long-lasting benefits to our users for many years to come.

This project was made possible by a generous grant from the UM Green Fund.