The following is a text-only press release from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). An HTML version of this release can be viewed on the agency's Web site: http://www.imls.gov/news/2010/090910b.shtm 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2010

Press Contacts
202-653-4632
Jeannine Mjoseth, [log in to unmask]
Mamie Bittner, [log in to unmask]


IMLS Releases Sustainability Plan in Keeping with Presidential Directive

Washington, DC-The Institute of Museum and Library Services today released its agency sustainability plan (http://www.imls.gov/pdf/SustainabilityPlan.pdf), setting goals for environmental and energy performance. The plan is part of a federal government-wide initiative President Obama called for in an October 2009 Executive Order, which directed all agencies to contribute to an integrated strategy toward sustainability and reduction of greenhouse gas.

"While IMLS is a small agency and does not own any buildings or vehicles, there are many ways in which we can help reduce the federal government's carbon footprint," said IMLS Acting Director Marsha L. Semmel. "We have numerous sustainability initiatives well underway and realistic goals for further improvement. We're proud of the success we've had so far and look forward to working toward the President's goals."

President Obama signed Executive Order 13514 on October 5, 2009. Among other goals, it requires federal agencies to increase energy efficiency, conserve water, reduce waste, support sustainable communities, and leverage federal purchasing power to promote environmentally responsible products and technologies. The resulting IMLS plan notes the agency's ongoing sustainability practices and sets additional benchmarks.

IMLS Sustainability Accomplishments:

■Over 87 percent of IMLS staff uses public transportation and takes advantage of the federal transit subsidy program.

■Nearly 25 percent of the agency staff telework at least occasionally. 

■The agency encourages and facilitates recycling in the building it leases through the General Services Administration.

■The agency uses webcasting extensively to engage its constituents around the country, reducing staff travel.

■80 percent of equipment owned by the agency is Energy Star-compliant.

IMLS Sustainability Goals:

■Increase percentage of employees who telework at least one day per week to 50 percent by fiscal year 2013.

■Bring ratio of printers to staff to 5:1 by fiscal year 2013.

■Procure only Energy Star-compliant equipment so that by fiscal year 2020 all agency-owned equipment will be energy-efficient.

■Recycle all equipment with vendors certified as responsible recyclers.

■Consolidate data center with another agency or partner within two years.
 
  
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services 
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov.