1. How does the evaluation process work?

          • All the submissions are prechecked by the Award working group which consists of ENSULIB Standing Committee members. Precheck focuses on formal completeness of the submissions as well as on geographical and thematic diversity. The group selects to the long list (about) 10-12 submissions to both categories (if there are enough complete submissions).
          • International group of reviewers evaluate the long list submission and check that they fulfill the criteria. Both categories are reviewed by 12-20 reviewers who represent different kinds of LIS professionals and students. Also, some architects have participated in reviewing the green libraries. The reviewers come from different continents and countries. All the reviewers are volunteers.
          • If the winners (top three submission) are not clear after the first round, a second round is arranged.

          2. We had a good project, but it was not accepted to the long list.

          • There are several possible reasons for this
            • Geographical diversity: if there are many submissions from same continent, country or city, the strongest submissions are accepted.
            • Thematic diversity: If there are many similar submissions (like library gardens), the strongest submissions are accepted.

          3. Can we have some feedback on our submission?

          Those who review the Award submissions are ENSULIB officers and reviewers are volunteers who work on the Award in addition to their ordinary work and we have limited resources to provide all applicants with feedback. Only summaries of reasons given by the reviewers for the short-listed submissions are published.

          4. What is the difference between “Best Green Library” and “Best Green Library Project”?

          • The Best Green Library Project is for work that is:
            • Large scale, typically with a significant budget
            • Usually a new library building or major renovation
            • Can also be for the implementation of a major green library service
            • The project is for the long term and involves all aspects of the library.
          • The Best Green Library Project is for work that is:
            • Limited in scope, time and budget and is usually on a smaller scale
            • The may relate to a service without any changes to the library building
            • Can involve innovation in one or more aspects of library operations
            • Impact will be more localized.

          5. Is it mandatory to include precise numerical data (for example, the percentage reduction in energy consumption or the number of visitors reached) for the application to be evaluated?

          No, exact figures are not mandatory, but they significantly help the reviewers understand the project’s impact. Whenever possible, it is recommended to provide measurable indicators—such as the percentage decrease in electricity usage, the number of participants involved in environmental education activities, or the estimated long-term cost savings. If such data are not available, a clear qualitative description is acceptable (for example, “a substantial reduction in the use of single-use materials” or “a significant improvement in community awareness”). The key is to demonstrate the project’s real environmental and social impact as clearly as possible.

          6. Can a project that is still ongoing be submitted, or does it need to be fully completed before applying?

          Yes, ongoing projects can be submitted if they have already produced visible or measurable results that demonstrate progress toward their environmental or sustainability goals. Clearly describe the current achievements and outline the next steps to show how the project will continue to create a positive impact.