In 2021, Commissioner Ted Terry launched a visionary effort to reimagine DeKalb County libraries as climate resilience hubs—living models of ecological stewardship, soil health, and regenerative community engagement.
While early explorations included parks, senior centers, and even private schools like the Muhammad School, the unique accessibility, centrality, and programming power of libraries made them ideal pilot locations.
We started with Clarkston Library, a space deeply rooted in its immigrant and refugee community. Partnering with Keller Williams Realty, we:
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• Removed invasive species and dying debris

• Spread 90 yards of DeKalb-produced compost

• Installed hundreds of native plants

• Hosted dream sessions, educational events, and workshops
   

This pilot laid the groundwork for future sites. Commissioner Davis-Johnson soon joined the initiative, supporting an additional five library pilots.
Yet, the pilots also revealed a systemic gap: contractors and landscapers were untrained in regenerative land practices. Traditional practices—herbicides, neonicotinoids, excessive mowing, and fossil-fueled blowers—were eroding the very soil and ecology we sought to heal.
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We responded by:

• Developing educational toolkits

• Building community programming models

• Writing a formal resolution to secure $500,000

• Envisioning a plan that could be scaled across all 23 libraries—and beyond
   

This document is that plan. A blueprint to institutionalize resilience, eliminate petrochemical reliance, and spark a county-wide transformation through the very spaces designed to educate and empower. Download the document to learn more about this project.