By Libby Anderson

Rowan Public Library

Earth Day, the world’s largest environmental movement, takes place annually on April 22. According to the Earth Day organization (earthday.org), prior to the 1960s most Americans were unaware of environmental concerns and issues. In 1962, however, this all changed when Rachel Carson’s book “Silent Spring” was published and sold over 500,000 copies across 24 countries. Her book helped raise public awareness about environmental issues, pollution and its effects on living beings.

In 1969, Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson started the Earth Day organization, hoping to bring various groups and individuals together to take action for the environment and promote environmental causes. The very first Earth Day event was held in 1970, and by late 1970, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was formed, and other environmental laws had passed.

Earth Day and its history show the power books have to both educate and inspire, as well as the power that we as individuals have to create change. If you are looking for ideas for actions you can take to be a part of making positive changes for our planet, I encourage you to look at the books and resources Rowan Public Library has to offer. Educating ourselves on the issues is one of the best things we can do to successfully start advocating for change. RPL has books on all sorts of environmental topics, whether you’re interested in climate change, renewable energy or plastic reduction.

For example, if you are interested in cooking, you might want to check out a book of plant-based recipes. According to the United Nations, eating plant-based can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint by up to 2.1 tons annually. RPL has books on this topic for every type of cuisine, including Yumiko Kano’s “Japanese Style Plant-Based Cooking,” Helen Le’s “Vegan Vietnamese,” Karla Salinari’s “Abuela’s Plant-Based Kitchen,” Lauren Hartmann’s “Southern Vegan,” Lois Ellen Frank’s “Seed to Plate, Soil to Sky,” and so many more. There are plant-based cookbooks for beginners, those on a budget, those with heart disease, or those looking to meal prep. This can be a great way to start making changes for our environment.

Other books that might help inspire you to take action include Damon Gameau’s “2040: A Handbook for the Regeneration,” which shares practical ways individuals can help, whether you are shopping, gardening or teaching your kids about the environment. Laurie David’s book “Imagine It!: A Handbook for a Happier Planet“ might also provide inspiration. Children might be interested in Loll Kirby’s “Old Enough to Save the Planet,” which tells the stories of 12 young environmental activists. And finally, you might want to check out Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring“ to see how it all began! To check out one of these books or learn more visit online at www.RowanPublicLibrary.org or visit your local RPL branch, or call 980-432-8670.

Libby Anderson is a librarian at Rowan Public Library.