Suffolk Libraries announces Guinness World Record Holder Clare Sams as its first ‘Environmentalist in Residence’ dedicated to education about sustainability

Suffolk Libraries has appointed a new team member who will be dedicated to educating people about sustainability, conservation and the need to protect our environment.

Clare Sams has been announced as the organisation’s first ‘Environmentalist in Residence’ as part of a new scheme, and in the role she will seek to connect with people on their doorstep and help them to contribute to a greener future.

The programme is inviting dedicated environmentalists to share their expertise, inspiration and love for the planet with library patrons of all ages.

A textiles artist and educator, Ms Sams will be working with Suffolk Libraries between November 2023 and April 2024.

She said: “I am so excited about the opportunity to be Suffolk Libraries’ 'Environmentalist in Residence' for the coming six months.

“During this time, I plan to run projects within libraries to highlight sustainability within fashion and textiles.

“This will include ‘Eco Fashion Lab’ sessions where library users will have the opportunity to learn skills in mending clothing and how to up-cycle old textiles to avoid waste going to landfill.”

Ms Sams has a master’s degree in Academic Practice for Art Design and Communication and also holds a Guinness World Record for the largest crochet hook.

During her residency, she will explore environmental themes with Suffolk’s communities across libraries in Suffolk, supporting people to learn skills in mending and creative upcycling to prolong the life of their clothing and reduce household textile waste.

Sally Garwood, senior creative producer for Suffolk Libraries, said: “We are delighted to welcome Clare, her mend and repair project will have a deeply positive impact on local communities - empowering them to turn their old into gold - and a ripple effect on people and living things around the world effected by landfill dumping grounds.”

The scheme in inspired by Toronto Public Library’s ‘Environmentalist in Residence project.