This project examines how academic libraries are aligning their sustainability goals with emerging digital technologies, specifically large language models. Survey data from the top 20 research university libraries websites will be presented alongside a discussion of relevant literature. This will include literature on the emerging fields of critical data centers studies and the resource demands of AI.

This project places the discussion in the broader context of the environmental sustainability movement as applied to academic libraries, with specific exploration of the triple bottom line approach to sustainability. The paper concludes with policy suggestions and next steps for study.

Saille Caia Murray

Saille Caia Murray

Saille Caia Murray (She/They) is a librarian (Pratt, MLIS 2025), and completed a master’s of urban studies (Fordham University 2019) with over a decade of political experience. Their research explores the intersection of public space and democracy and engaging students in the research process. They seek to cultivate a deeper understanding of how libraries contribute to civic diversity and community and serve as democratic infrastructure. They have a passion for instruction and helping communities access knowledge. As a librarian, they hope that by inviting these conversations they will create space for deeper community engagement, leading to a more holistic reference service experience. Their passion for exploring and strengthening the role that libraries play in our broader democratic infrastructure has been realized in their own scholarship and practice. These passions for documenting democratic practice in public spaces are partially realized in their ongoing photography project “what I see when I walk.” In their free time, they enjoy hiking, crafting cocktails, practicing aikido, and embroidery.
Saille Caia Murray

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