Gift and Exchange Services in Libraries and Information Institutions and Their Role in Moving Toward Green Knowledge Environments: A Field Study in Light of the United Arab Emirates Policy for the Transition Toward the Circular Economy 2031

Abstract

This study examines the role of gift and exchange services in libraries and information institutions as a mechanism for supporting the United Arab Emirates’ transition toward a circular economy and green knowledge environments. It proceeds from contemporary environmental challenges, including climate change, rising emissions, and environmentally harmful human practices, to explore how donated and exchanged print materials can be reused and redirected in ways that reduce waste and enhance the sustainable use of knowledge resources. The study defines gift and exchange services, analyzes their importance in collection management, and investigates their current practice in libraries and information institutions in the UAE. It also considers the relationship between publishing, paper printing, reuse, and recycling. The study proposes a knowledge-based perspective for measuring the carbon and environmental footprint of print holdings, organizing their utilization, and aligning them with circular economy principles, thereby strengthening institutional and societal environmental responsibility.