I remember the first Earth Day celebration in 1970! It was my freshman year of high school and our Social Studies teacher incorporated it into the curriculum. I don’t think many of us understood the scope of the issues, but what I learned in class, and in the news, stuck with me. I’m not a world-class recycler, but continue to do my best to expand my efforts.
Here are a couple ways you can celebrate Earth Month right here at the Library:
Recycle Your Shoes
April 1-22
Library Lobby
Bring in (almost) any type of footwear, in (almost) any condition Please keep pairs together: tie laces, or secure with rubber bands, or place in a tied, plastic bag. Sorry, but CANNOT accept:
- Snow boots
- Moldy shoes
- Shoes too badly damaged – in pieces or no soles/bottoms
This is part of the SWALCO Reuse-A-Shoe initiative, and all shoes are either distributed for use or carefully dissembled and recycled. Last year the Library and Deerfield community kept 376 pairs of shoes out of landfill dumps. Look for the collection box in the lobby.
Bonus! Donate shoes and receive a reusable, PVC-free Library tote bag. While supplies last; One per family, please.
Tap Water Taste Test
Saturday, April 22, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Library lobby
With a blind taste test, participants will be challenged to identify tap water from bottled water. Information about water quality, safety, and testing will be available. Presented in partnership with the Village of Deerfield Sustainability Commission.
At a Nearby Location: Recycle Your Clothing & Textiles
Did you know that 85% of all clothing and textiles end up in landfills in the U.S.?
The great news is that you can help turn the tide by participating in SWALCO’s recycling program. They accept new, gently used, used or unwanted/worn, women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing and textiles. All fabrics will be accepted, even with stains or holes. Nearly 95% of the materials collected will be repurposed or recycled. You’ll find a drop box in the West Deerfield Township parking lot, 601 Deerfield Rd. Donations should be in a closed plastic bag. More details about recycling your clothing and textiles can be found on the SWALCO website.
