A library open to sustainability

This is one of the oldest and most richly decorated half-timbered houses in the city, which has now been transformed to house a new way of understanding culture and knowledge: the Eden Open Library, an autonomous, accessible space deeply committed to sustainability.

The Eden Open Library is part of the Paderborn Municipal Library and operates with free access every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., without on-site staff. A place to read, study, create, share, or simply be. All in a friendly, welcoming environment aligned with the principles of the 2030 Agenda established by the United Nations in 2015, with the goal of achieving a more sustainable future for all.

Inside, sustainability is not just a concept, but a tangible reality: furniture made with recycled materials, energy-efficient systems, and a design that encourages care for the environment.

In this context, Sellex participated in the project with the HANDY Stool 100/100, in a Black 100/100 finish with a natural oak wood pad. This is the most sustainable version of HANDY, made from 100% recycled and 100% recyclable polypropylene, a true reflection of Sellex's commitment to eco-design and environmental responsibility. 

A sustainable and versatile stool

But HANDY isn't just a sustainable product; it's also a multipurpose stool that can act as a side table, depending on the needs of the space or its users. This piece of auxiliary furniture, designed by Stephen Philips, stands out for being stackable and its easy handling and lightness (3.3 kg), allowing it to be moved from one place to another easily.

Its versatility and sustainable nature made it a perfect fit for an environment like the Eden Library, designed to be dynamic, flexible, and open to different uses.

Its choice wasn't accidental. The Library managers opted for HANDY because it was a sustainable product that met the project's aesthetic and functional criteria and helped reinforce its responsible nature.

The HANDY Stool was developed according to Sellex's eco-design methodology, whose objectives are:

• Designing high-quality, long-lasting products.
• Reducing the consumption of raw materials.
• Using recyclable materials.
• Implement environmentally friendly production processes.

All of this results in a lightweight, durable and stackable stool with a timeless aesthetic and carefully manufactured to minimize its ecological footprint.

Best Green Library

The Eden Open Library project has been recognized with second place in the IFLA Green Library Award 2024, in the category of 'Best Green Library / Large-Scale Project.' The jury highlighted not only the architectural value of the renovated building, but also its transformation into a sustainable, accessible space with a positive social impact.

Without a doubt, being able to be part of a project that deserves such an award is an honour. Because when sustainable design is at the service of committed spaces, every gesture (no matter how small) counts on the path to a greener future.