Policy 

We want to encourage staff to use the least toxic, most sustainable products available.  Multnomah County has instituted its Sustainable Purchasing And Equity Policy as a guide for this change.

County policy (pdf)

Rationale

By using reusable, locally manufactured and toxin-free products when possible we will reduce our carbon footprint, create a more healthy environment in which to work, and lessen our patrons' and employees' chemical body burden.

Application

• Refillable pens and pencils are available from Mutlco Marketplace
• Recycled content (preferably 100% without the use of chlorine) paper products including, but not limited to: post-its, folders, copy paper, envelopes, interdepartmental envelopes, towels, tissue, binders (specify ordering procedure/search terms in MultCo Marketplace)
• Rechargeable batteries and chargers are available by special order
• Manual pencil sharpeners are preferred over electric
• Soy lubricant should be used in place of WD-40. This lubricant (Soy Lube SL-100) is now available in drip or spray bottles on the Library Supplies form under the "Cleaners" section. Drip bottles are most efficient and avoid over spray when lubricating book truck wheels, etc.