Buckinghamshire libraries to introduce 100% biodegradable cards
Buckinghamshire libraries are set to introduce “100 per cent biodegradable” membership cards in a bid to reduce their environmental impact.
Cabinet member for culture and leisure, Cllr Peter Brazier, announced that libraries will begin issuing the greener cards once their existing stock has been used.
The cards, expected to arrive in the coming months, will be given to new members and existing borrowers who require replacements.
They will retain the familiar library card designs, while the council says the change will help reduce environmental impact and costs.
Cllr Brazier said the biodegradable cards could last for several years if cared for responsibly. Users will be advised to keep them dry and flat and protect them from excessive heat and sunlight.
Older, lost or damaged cards can still be replaced by libraries for the usual small charge. Borrowers who would rather not carry a physical card can use the digital barcode provided through the Spydus Library app.
The barcode can be scanned at library enquiry desks and self-service kiosks and used to gain Library Flex access during unstaffed hours. The free Spydus Library app is available on Android and Apple devices.