Bloomington hosts several farmer's markets, even one in the winter, making local foods available directly from growers throughout the whole year. Many local farms also offer Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) options.
The Monroe County Public Library is considered one of the best in the nation, with a huge browsing collection of books, music, and films. Public transportation is easily accessible, and most buses are hybrid electric. Bloomington boasts a large number of public parks, including a Community Orchard. The city has an active Sustainability Commission and the campus offers an Office of Sustainability and a new Food Institute.
"Sustainability and livability are our guiding principles, and are the foundations of quality, long-lasting economic and community development." – from the Sustainable City page for the City of Bloomington.