This past term ArtSci 3BBE (Technology and Society) worked with staff in the University Library to measure energy consumption within the University Libraries (Mills, Thode and Innis). All of the students were required to participate in this service learning project. They worked together with the library and with staff in the the Office of Sustainability. The results of their research can be found in this report: Energy Usage in McMaster Libraries
The report will be beneficial to us as we look for ways to reduce costs associated with energy consumption. Perhaps more importantly, it built relationships. The process provided a great opportunity for the library to work collaboratively with a faculty, staff and students, in a “real-world” learning environment. Based on the results we have seen from this project I am sure we will be seeing more such projects in the future.
