Sustainable Libraries: A Literature Review of Eco - friendly Initiatives and Environmental Impact in Buddhist Libraries in Sri Lanka

This study investigates eco-friendly practices, their environmental impact, and related integration with Buddhist libraries in Sri Lanka. Focusing on sustainability initiatives, this research covers resource digitization, the introduction of renewable energy, and waste management, among other initiatives. It intends to review the literature, analyze case studies, identify challenges, and present recommendations that could help enhance sustainability in these religious institutions. This research employs a qualitative, exploratory methodology, drawing on documented case studies and records, using content analysis to assess the environmental and cultural implications of the initiatives. The findings indicate that there has been significant progress in digitization and the adoption of renewable energy, which have reduced ecological footprints and increased community awareness of environmental stewardship. However, financial constraints, technical limitations, and balancing traditional values with modern practices remain some of the challenges. This study, therefore, calls for strategic support and innovation to surmount these challenges and offers insights into the integration of sustainability into cultural and religious institutions.