Environmentalist-in-residence : Suffolk Libraries

Suffolk Libraries’ environmentalist-in-residence programme invites dedicated environmentalists to share their expertise, inspiration and love for the planet with library users of all ages. The purpose of the environmentalist-in-residence project is to explore environmental responsibility with libraries and their communities, using creativity as an instrument to provide environmental education and awareness in ways that are accessible and fun.

As part of its residency programme, it has invited textile artist Clare Sams and field recordist Martin Scaiff to spend six months each at the library service, working with users to create art and add to the library’s offer. Clare’s residency resulted in a book about mending and repair, whereas Martin’s residency worked towards creating a collection of sounds to go in the library’s collection.

“Throughout my residency I became aware of the unique nature of the spaces offered by Suffolk Libraries to local communities. As a place of learning, they were an invaluable space to discuss the environmental impact of fashion and textiles. Most importantly the libraries serve as safe spaces which offer a supportive and welcoming environment for everyone in the community.” (Clare Sams, Environmentalist-in-residence, Suffolk Libraries, 2023)

“As part of my residency, I have been sound walking between every Suffolk library for the Seconds of Sound (S.O.S project). On these walks, I recorded and live streamed the acoustic habitats I travelled through, inviting others to walk with me (either in person or remotely), and delivering active environmental listening activities however, whenever, and wherever, I can. After each walk, I have brought the sounds I have recorded together into a collection that will become part of Suffolk Libraries’ lending stock.” (Martin Scaiff, Environmentalist-in-residence at Suffolk Libraries, 2024).