Methodology

The report draws on a literature review, expert interviews, and case studies to analyse the current contribution of libraries to education for sustainable development (ESD). It identifies key areas where libraries are involved, including providing access to OER, supporting the Global Knowledge Commons, and collaborating with various stakeholders such as governments, NGOs, and educational institutions. Qualitative insights were gathered through interviews with stakeholders, highlighting the need for libraries to take a proactive role in ESD efforts.

Analysis: Literature

Libraries play a critical role in addressing the global inequality of access to educational resources. By offering open access to peer-reviewed, high-quality knowledge resources aligned with the SDGs, libraries can mitigate issues such as misinformation and the digital divide. The report stresses the importance of FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable) principles and collaboration with institutions to ensure that educational resources remain in the public domain.

Analysis: Expert interviews

Interviews with thought leaders and library experts revealed a consensus on the importance of libraries in fostering knowledge equity and digital literacy. Stakeholders highlighted the need for libraries to engage more actively in policy-making and to collaborate with educational institutions. A recurring theme was the lack of visibility of library services and the need for better integration of libraries into national ESD frameworks.

Analysis: Case studies

Twenty case studies from various countries demonstrate how libraries have successfully contributed to ESD. These case studies illustrate diverse approaches, from supporting student-led sustainability projects at the University Library of Southern Denmark to creating eco-centres for environmental education in Kazakhstan. The findings highlight the innovative ways libraries promote sustainable practices and the challenges they face, such as funding constraints and the digital divide.

Analysis: Networks

Libraries are integral to both national and international networks, connecting expertise and fostering global collaboration. These networks enable libraries to contribute effectively to ESD through shared resources, standards, and advocacy. Notable networks include the Global Knowledge Commons, AmeliCA, COAR, and Creative Commons, which collaborate to ensure open access to resources and create a sustainable knowledge ecosystem.

Building blocks for education for sustainable development and libraries

Libraries are deeply embedded in global knowledge networks and are uniquely positioned to support the creation and dissemination of OER. The report identifies the need for libraries to adopt ESG (environmental, social, and governance) principles and to ensure that their resources align with global sustainability standards. The connection between OER, open access, and sustainable development is seen as a critical area for future growth.

Towards a global knowledge commons for sustainable development

The Global Knowledge Commons initiative, supported by UNESCO and the SDG Academy, aims to create a global repository of peer-reviewed, accessible knowledge resources for ESD. This platform would facilitate international collaboration, ensuring that educational resources remain open and accessible to all. The report emphasises the importance of sustaining these efforts through policy support, partnerships, and adherence to open access principles.

Recommendations

Key recommendations for policymakers include supporting the development of the Global Knowledge Commons, ensuring that libraries are integrated into ESD policies, and committing to open access models such as Diamond Open Access. Libraries should collaborate more effectively with other institutions and stakeholders, engage in professional development, and adopt ESG standards.

Conclusion

Libraries are essential to achieving education for sustainable development. By supporting open access to educational resources and fostering community engagement, libraries can contribute to the global effort to meet the SDGs. Continued investment in digital infrastructure, policy support, and collaboration with various stakeholders will be necessary to maximise the potential of libraries in advancing sustainable development.