Toxic Leadership in Libraries: Would You Work for the Wicked Witch of the West?

Would You Work for the Wicked Witch of the West?

I have always loved The Wizard of Oz. Growing up, I watched the movie every year, and the book remains one of my all-time favorites. One of my favorite characters that fascinated me the most was the Wicked Witch of the West. In many ways I admired her because she was so determined, very powerful, and unapologetically off the hook. But as I got older and entered the professional world, I encountered a different kind of Wicked Witch which I would call the Toxic Leader. 

My first experience with a toxic leader happened many, many years ago, but I still remember the moment vividly. She snapped at me over something minor and in that moment I had to fight back the tears. I headed to the break room as quickly as I could and when I was alone I let the tears fall. She was terrifying, and the most ironic part? I was actually one of her favorites!

What Does Toxic Leadership Look Like?

Much like in the Wizard of Oz, a toxic leader creates an environment filled with fear, manipulation, and control. Here are some telltale signs:

• Micromanagement & Power Hoarding – Just as the Wicked Witch coveted the ruby slippers, toxic leaders cling to power, unwilling to delegate or trust their staff. Every decision must go through them, no matter how small.

• Emotional Manipulation – The Wicked Witch wanted Dorothy’s slippers and she used scare tactics and intimidation to try to get them. Toxic library leaders may use guilt, passive-aggressiveness, or even outright hostility to control their staff.

• Favoritism & Nepotism – In the land of Oz, there was always preferential treatment going on, and in toxic workplaces it is prevalent, certain staff members receive special privileges while others are ignored or set up for failure.

• Lack of Support & Unrealistic Expectations – Much like when the Wicked Witch sent her minions after Dorothy without a solid plan, toxic leaders demand results without offering guidance, resources, or realistic expectations.

• Punishing Dissent & Stifling Innovation – The Wicked Witch didn’t take well to opposition, and neither do toxic leaders. Employees who challenge bad policies, offer new ideas, or advocate for improvements may find themselves sidelined or retaliated against.

Here are a few examples of how the Wicked Witch is toxic:

🔥 She rules through fear instead of respect
🔥 She micromanages (obsessing over the ruby slippers instead of leading effectively)
🔥 She uses others to do her dirty work 
🔥 She lashes out at others instead of self-reflecting
🔥 She can’t handle opposition—When anyone stands up to her she completely unravels

The Impact of Toxic Leadership

Working under toxic leadership can be emotionally and physically draining. Employees in these environments often experience:

• Burnout and high stress levels

• Decreased motivation and engagement

• Fear of speaking up or advocating for change

• High turnover rates, creating an unstable work environment

How to Survive or Escape

If you find yourself working under the library world’s version of the Wizard of Oz, here are some strategies to help you navigate the storm:

1. Document Everything – Keep a record of incidents, unfair treatment, and unrealistic expectations. If things escalate, documentation can be crucial.

2. Find Your Glinda (aka a Support System) – Seek out supportive colleagues, mentors, or professional networks to validate your experiences and provide guidance. 

3. Establish Boundaries – Toxic leaders thrive on overextending employees. Learn to say no and protect your mental health.

4. Seek Professional Development Opportunities – If advancement within your current library isn’t possible, consider gaining skills that will help you transition to a healthier work environment.

5. Know When to Leave – Sometimes, no amount of ruby slippers will make a toxic environment better. If leadership is unwilling to change, seeking employment elsewhere may be the best option for your well-being.

Building a Better Library Culture

Not all library leaders are diabolical villains. Many are compassionate, supportive, and dedicated to fostering a positive workplace. The key to combating toxic leadership is advocating for healthy work environments, recognizing red flags early, and promoting professional development and leadership training that emphasizes emotional intelligence, collaboration, and staff well-being.

If you’ve ever worked under a toxic manager, know that you’re not alone. There’s no place like a healthy library workplace, and sometimes, the best thing you can do is follow your own yellow brick road to a better environment.

Have you experienced toxic leadership in libraries? Share your thoughts in the comments or let’s continue the conversation on how we can make libraries a healthier place for all.

Wishing you well,

the Compassionate Librarian

How Helping Others Can Fill Your Cup

When Helping Others is Part of Your Self-Care

For some of us, the act of helping others—whether it’s assisting a patron, checking in on a friend, or simply offering kindness to a stranger—fills our emotional well. We find strength and healing in connection, and giving our time or energy to support others makes us feel good. But how do we balance this when life gets overwhelming?

Why Helping Others Feels So Good

There’s a reason helping others is powerful. Studies show it releases endorphins, reduces stress, and increases feelings of connection. For those of us in service professions—like librarians—it can be both a calling and a coping mechanism. When we help, we feel more grounded, useful, and in tune with our community.

I’ve experienced firsthand that some of my most meaningful moments have come from lending a hand to someone in need, whether it was offering support to a patron experiencing homelessness, listening to a colleague who just needed to vent, or surprising a friend with a small act of kindness. Every time I help someone, I walk away feeling a little lighter and more connected to something bigger than myself.

Balance is Key

For many people, helping others gives you a happy boost, which also supports an overall feeling of well-being. With that in mind, it can sometimes be easy to lose sight of your own needs. If your self-care only involves giving to others, you might eventually feel drained or resentful. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) that it’s okay to set boundaries and say no when you need to recharge.

Here are a few tips I’ve found to Be helpful:

1. Set boundaries: Be honest with yourself about how much you can give without depleting your own energy.
2. Find joy in small acts: Not every act of kindness needs to be big. Sometimes holding the door for someone or giving a compliment is enough.
3. Practice reciprocal care: Surround yourself with people who can also support you when you need it.
4. Check in with yourself: Ask, “Am I helping because it feels good or because I feel I have to?”

Final Thoughts

If you are like me and helping others is part of your self-care, you should embrace it! Just remember that it’s okay to prioritize your own needs, too. Self-care doesn’t mean you have to stop being compassionate; it means making sure you have the energy to keep giving in meaningful, healthy ways.

Happy Self-Care,

the Compassionate Librarian

Setting Boundaries with Compassion: Navigating Difficult Patron Interactions

Working in a public library, I’ve always believed in creating a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone. Libraries are often one of the few places where unhoused community members can find shelter, resources, and a sense of belonging, but what happens when a patron’s behavior crosses the line—making staff feel uncomfortable or unsafe?

When Patron Behavior Crosses the Line

At my library yesterday, an unhoused man spent a few hours approaching several of the female staff—asking for their names, phone numbers, and even asking them out on dates. Each time he would ask, they would say NO. His comments became increasingly inappropriate, veering into remarks about their bodies and expressing his desire to "get with them." Even the male staff members felt extremely uncomfortable as the unhoused man approached them and made harassing comments to them about their coworkers. 

At first, the staff tried to brush it off, but as the encounters continued, it became clear that his behavior was out of line. Many staff members were visibly uncomfortable, unsure of how to respond, but they still continued to say NO.

Taking Action Without Escalation

When dealing with difficult situations like this, my goal is always to find a solution that protects the staff while also avoiding unnecessary escalation—especially when police intervention could cause further harm to someone already struggling. It was not our intention to harm the man, only to have him stop making harassing comments. 

Instead of immediately calling law enforcement, I thought we'd try to calmly but firmly let the man know that his behavior was unacceptable and ask him to leave for the day.

The message was clear:
👉 It is NOT appropriate to make comments about staff members’ bodies
👉 It is NOT OK to persist when someone says no
👉 The bottom line is - No means No

At first, the man brushed it off saying, “I’m just a friendly person,” We held firm and reiterated that his behavior was not OK and he had made staff feel uncomfortable. Eventually, he left the library upon our request. 

The Balance Between Compassion and Boundaries

This situation wasn’t easy. Libraries are meant to be safe spaces for both patrons and staff, but we cannot prioritize being "welcoming" at the expense of safety.
📌 Staff should never feel intimidated or unsafe at work.
📌 Patrons should know that inappropriate behavior is not OK.

At the same time, I also recognize the challenges of addressing these issues when they involve vulnerable patrons. Many unhoused individuals lack access to mental health care, social services, and community support. This doesn’t excuse inappropriate behavior—but it does help us approach these moments with humanity and care.

Lessons for Library Staff: How to Handle Similar Situations

If you find yourself facing a similar situation in your library, here are some key takeaways:

✅ Trust Your Instincts & Speak Up
If a patron is making you uncomfortable, you do not have to “just deal with it.” Your safety and well-being matter.

✅ Use Direct, Clear Language
Phrases like “That is not appropriate” or “I need you to stop” send a firm message without inviting debate.

✅ Have a Plan for Escalation
Decide in advance how your library will handle boundary violations. Options may include:

• A verbal warning
• A short-term removal from the library
• A formal ban if behavior continues
• Involving security or law enforcement only when absolutely necessary

✅ Support Each Other
Library work is tough. Let your coworkers know they have your support. Check in with coworkers after a difficult patron interaction and make sure they feel supported.

✅ You Can Be Compassionate AND Have Boundaries
It’s possible to care about serving all patrons while still enforcing rules that keep everyone safe. Boundaries are not unkind—they allow libraries to function as the safe spaces they’re meant to be.

Final Thoughts

This situation was a reminder that boundaries are necessary—not just for protecting staff, but for ensuring that everyone in the library understands what respectful behavior looks like.

Libraries are essential community spaces, but that doesn’t mean anything goes. We have a responsibility to uphold a culture of safety, respect, and inclusion—for patrons and staff alike.

Have you ever encountered a situation like this in your library? How did you handle it? Let’s start a conversation about creating safer and more supportive library spaces. 💙📚

all my best, 

the Compassionate Librarian

Mental Health Resources for Self-Care

Libraries are wonderful and you're surrounded by books, which is amazing, but if you are library staff or volunteer at a library you may find it can sometimes be emotionally and/or mentally draining. Library staff juggle a variety of roles. We help patrons in need, manage community challenges, and balance the growing demands of our tasks. With such a wide range of responsibilities, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. That’s why taking care of your mental health is so important.

Today, I want to share a variety of tips and resources that can help. Whether you’re dealing with compassion fatigue, workplace stress, overwhelmed with school assignments, or just need a moment to breathe, there’s something here to help with your well-being.

Tips for Protecting Your Mental Health

1. Set Boundaries

   • Know your limits when working with challenging patrons or overwhelming workloads. It’s okay to say no or ask for help when you need it.
   • Establish clear times for breaks, even if it’s just stepping away for five minutes.

2. Practice Mindfulness

   • Take a few moments during your day to pause and breathe. Apps like Calm or Insight Timer offer guided meditations perfect for quick mental resets.
   • Practice grounding techniques, like focusing on five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.

3. Lean on Peer Support

   • Connect with coworkers to share experiences, frustrations, and strategies. Peer support groups can make a big difference in feeling less isolated.
   • Celebrate small wins together, like successfully managing a difficult situation or hosting a successful program.

4. Find a Hobby or Start a Creative Project

   • Engaging in a hobby or creative activity can work wonders for your mental health. Whether it’s painting, gardening, writing, or learning a new skill, doing something you enjoy can help you unwind and bring joy to your day.
   • If you’re not sure where to start, think about something you’ve always wanted to try. A new creative project might be just what you need to recharge.

5. Spend Time with Friends or Loved Ones

   • Social connection is a powerful way to relieve stress and improve mental health. Plan an outing with friends or family—a hike in nature, lunch at a favorite spot, or a visit to a tea café for a cozy teatime treat.
   • Remember the phrase “Treat Yo’ Self.” Whether it’s splurging on a fancy dessert or booking that much-needed massage, doing something fun with loved ones can lift your spirits and help you feel supported.

6. Stay Active

   • Movement can do wonders for your mental health. Take a walk during lunch or try a quick stretch behind the desk.
   • Incorporate physical activity into your routine to help manage stress and improve focus.

Mental Health Resources

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor

Library Worker Trauma Support Website - https://urbanlibrariansunite.org/ults

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7

Hotlines and Support Services

• NAMI HelpLine:

  • Call 800-950-NAMI (6264)
  • Text "HelpLine" to 62640
  • Chat with a specialist on NAMI.org

• Veterans Crisis Line:

  • Call 988, then press 1
  • Text 838255
  • Chat online with the Veterans Crisis Line

• Disaster Distress Helpline:

  • Call 1-800-985-5990
  • Text "TalkWithUs" to 66746

Apps

• Calm – Offers guided meditations, sleep stories, and relaxation tools.
• Headspace – Great for learning meditation and mindfulness techniques.
• Sanvello – Focuses on stress and anxiety management with tools and journaling features.

Books to Explore

• Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski
• The Cure for Burnout by Emily Ballesteros
• The Self-Care Solution: A Year of Becoming Happier, Healthier, and Fitter by Jennifer Ashton
• Trauma Stewardship: An Everyday Guide to Caring for Self While Caring for Others by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky
• Self-care for People With ADHD: 100+ Ways to Recharge, De-stress, and Prioritize You! by Sasha Hamdani
• Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) by Pooja Lakshmin
• Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World by Eve Rodsky

Creating a Library Culture of Mental Health Awareness

Beyond personal self-care, it’s important for library leadership to foster an environment where mental health is prioritized. Some ideas include:

• Offering mental health days for staff.
• Hosting workshops on managing stress and compassion fatigue.
• Creating quiet spaces in the library where staff can decompress.
• Partnering with local mental health organizations to provide additional resources.

Remember You Are Not Alone

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you’re not alone. There are tools, resources, and people who care about your well-being. Take time to check in with yourself, lean on your support system, and explore the resources that work best for you.

If you ever feel like you’re in crisis or may harm yourself, please seek professional help immediately. There is strength in asking for help, and support is just a call or text away.

With care and support,

the Compassionate Librarian

The Benefits of Taking Your Lunch Break

In the fast-paced world of library work, it can be all too easy to skip your lunch break or spend it glued to your desk. There’s always another patron to help, a program to plan, or emails to answer. But here’s the truth: skipping your break doesn’t make you more productive—it makes you more exhausted. I've skipped my lunch break many times only to find myself feeling completely worn out and unable to focus by late afternoon. It is definitely not worth skipping. Taking your lunch break is a matter of self-care and a big necessity. We need a real, intentional break in the middle of our day which can help us reset, recharge, and refocus, making the rest of the day more manageable and enjoyable. 

Let’s explore why lunch breaks matter and how you can make the most of them.

Why Your Lunch Break Matters

1. Boosts Your Productivity: Stepping away from work, even for 30 minutes, helps your brain rest and recharge, making you more effective when you return.
2. Reduces Stress: Taking time for yourself, especially if you can step outside or do something enjoyable, lowers stress levels and improves overall mood.
3. Supports Physical Health: Eating mindfully and giving your body time to relax during lunch can improve digestion and prevent burnout.

How to Reclaim Your Lunch Break

Here are some simple strategies to ensure your lunch break becomes a moment of restoration, not just another item on your to-do list:

1. Step Outside

• Spending even a few minutes outdoors can work wonders. Fresh air, sunlight, and a change of scenery can help you feel more grounded and refreshed.
• If your library is in a busy area, find a nearby park, or even take a quick stroll around the building.

2. Eat Mindfully

• Instead of rushing through your meal or multitasking, take the time to enjoy your food.
• Put away screens, savor each bite, and focus on how your meal tastes and feels. Mindful eating not only enhances your lunch experience but also aids digestion and reduces stress.

3. Journal or Reflect

• Use part of your lunch break to jot down your thoughts, reflect on your day so far, or set intentions for the rest of it.
• A small notebook or a journaling app can be a great companion for clearing your mind and boosting creativity.

4. Engage in a Relaxing Activity

• Listen to your favorite music or podcast, read a few pages of a book, or do a quick meditation.
• Activities like these can help you recharge without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

5. Socialize (only if it’s energizing for you)

• If you enjoy connecting with coworkers, invite a colleague to join you for lunch or a short walk. Sharing a break can foster camaraderie and make your day feel lighter.

6. Protect Your Break Time

• Set boundaries to ensure you actually take your break. Let coworkers know you’re unavailable during lunch, and avoid checking work emails or tasks.

Making It a Habit

Reclaiming your lunch break starts with prioritizing it. Add it to your schedule like any other important appointment. Remember, you deserve this time to care for yourself—it’s not a luxury, but a critical part of staying balanced and effective in your work.

Share Your Lunch Break Wins

Do you have a favorite way to spend your lunch break? Whether it’s a mindful walk, a delicious meal, or a few moments of quiet, I’d love to hear your tips and experiences in the comments!

With Care & Concern,
the Compassionate Librarian

Libraries Need to Step Up & Support Their Workers

I work in a public library, and while it’s a job I truly love, I’ve found it can sometimes be incredibly challenging, especially when working with unhoused patrons or those facing difficult circumstances. There have been days when the situations I encounter weigh heavily on me. I have so much compassion for these individuals, but there are times when I feel drained and overwhelmed, trying to navigate them to safety while also feeling responsible for their well-being because they are so vulnerable.

The experiences I have had helping unhoused patrons has made me reflect on what Libraries need to do to be more supportive for the staff who show up every day and pour their hearts into their work. 

Here are some practices that Libraries should provide for their workers. These come from my own experiences and through learning from others in the field:

1. Training for Staff

Professional development and training are essential in library work. Providing staff with training gives them the skills to approach challenging interactions with kindness and understanding. This can include:

• De-escalation techniques to handle tense or potentially unsafe situations.
• Trauma-informed care to better support patrons who may be experiencing crises.
• Active listening skills to truly hear and understand patron needs.
• Team building skills are very helpful as well. 

When staff feel prepared to manage tough interactions, it not only reduces their stress but also creates a more supportive environment for patrons.

2. Peer Support Groups

Working in a library, especially with vulnerable populations, can take an emotional toll. Peer support groups give staff a space to connect, vent, and share strategies for managing the challenges of the job. These groups:

• Create a judgment-free zone to discuss workplace stress.
• Provide validation and encouragement from coworkers who understand the struggles firsthand.
• Help staff feel less isolated and more supported.

Sometimes, just knowing someone else has been through a similar experience can make all the difference.

3. Clear Policies for Safety and Inclusion

Safety and inclusion go hand in hand. Having clear, consistently enforced policies helps staff feel secure and ensures patrons know what to expect. Some important policies to consider include:

• A zero-tolerance policy for harassment or violence toward staff or other patrons.
• Conflict resolution protocols that staff can easily follow in challenging situations.
• Inclusivity guidelines to ensure all patrons feel welcome, regardless of their background or circumstances.

These policies create a foundation of trust and mutual respect in the library.

4. Design Spaces with Safety & Support in Mind

The physical layout of a library can have a big impact on how safe and welcoming it feels. Some ideas include:

• Quiet zones where patrons can decompress without distractions.
• Comfortable staff break areas for much-needed downtime during busy shifts.
• Universal accessibility to ensure everyone, including those with disabilities, can fully access the library’s resources.
• Private areas where sensitive conversations or referrals can take place.

Even small changes, like adding soothing colors or natural lighting, can make a space feel more inviting.

5. Foster a Culture of Care

Library support should start from the top down. When leadership prioritizes staff well-being, it trickles down to create a more caring environment for everyone. Some ways to foster this culture include:

• Acknowledging and celebrating staff achievements.
• Encouraging breaks and mental health days without guilt.
• Checking in with staff regularly to see how they’re doing and what support they need.
• Offering flexibility wherever possible to support work-life balance.

When staff feel cared for, they’re better able to extend that care to patrons.

6. Finding Partners to Help & Support

Libraries don’t have to go it alone. Partnering with local organizations can provide staff and patrons with additional resources and support. Examples include:

• Hosting workshops on mental health or conflict resolution for staff and patrons.
• Providing resource guides or referrals for unhoused individuals.
• Partnering with social workers or mental health professionals for on-site assistance.

These partnerships can strengthen the library’s ability to serve its community while reducing the burden on staff.

7. Prioritize Self-Care for Staff

In the midst of serving our communities, it’s easy for library staff to forget to care for themselves. Yet self-care is essential. It helps us recharge, manage stress, and avoid burnout, especially when navigating the unique challenges of library work. Recognizing this, I am creating a self-care course tailored specifically for library workers. This course will e offered to ALA members as a free resource and will offer practical tools and strategies to help library workers prioritize their well-being while continuing to make a meaningful impact in their communities. 

Here are some ways that Libraries can encourage and support self-care:

• Offer Dedicated Self-Care Training: Provide courses and workshops focused on stress management, mindfulness, and work-life balance. (I’m currently designing a self-care course tailored specifically for library workers to serve as a resource for their well-being!)
• Encourage Breaks: Ensure staff feel supported in taking their full breaks without guilt or pressure.
• Create a Culture of Self-Care: Model self-care at all levels of leadership, so staff know it’s a priority, not an afterthought.
• Provide Mental Health Resources: Share information about local counselors, helplines, or stress-relief programs.

When staff practice self-care, they’re better equipped to support patrons and foster a positive, compassionate library environment.

Navigating Through Complex Challenges

Working in a library means navigating complex challenges, but it also means having the opportunity to create meaningful change. By focusing on empathy, safety, and support, we can make libraries more compassionate spaces for everyone, both staff and patrons.

What are some ways your library has fostered safety and compassion? I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences if you'd like to share.

With care and compassion,

the Compassionate Librarian

Celebrating the Heart of Library Work

I always say you never know what a day at the library will bring. Some days, it feels like we’re navigating a storm—rushing to put out fires, managing long lines at the desk, and juggling the many unexpected challenges that come our way. With all of that, there are many wonderful moments that remind us why we’re here, the moments that make all the hard work feel worthwhile.

I’ll never forget one particularly busy day. There were patrons lined up out the door. The phone wouldn’t stop ringing, the printer was broken, and a frustrated patron let me know in no uncertain terms just how upset they were about the situation. By the end of my shift, I felt drained and overwhelmed, questioning myself on why I do this work.

Just as I was wrapping up my day, something remarkable happened. A teen patron I had helped earlier that week returned to the library. She was clutching the book I had helped her pick out. When she saw me she had the biggest smile. She told me how much she loved the book and that it had inspired her to start writing a story of her own. That small interaction completely made my day!

Finding Joy in Small Moments

Helping people is really the heart of library work: the connections we make and the lives we touch. All in the middle of a chaotic day. This really breaks through the noise and reminds me why I do what I do.

I’ve also found immense joy in mentoring new librarians. Recently, I worked with a new staff member who was eager but nervous about their first few weeks on the job. I offered guidance on how to manage tough patron interactions, shared tips for staying organized, and how to navigate the reference desk, I also told them to contact me if they needed anything. Seeing their confidence grow over time was incredibly rewarding. It was a strong reminder of how our work goes beyond books and services.

Balancing the Highs and Lows

Library work can be challenging, but those moments of connection, inspiration, and growth are what keep us going. Whether it’s helping a patron find the information they need, inspiring someone to try something new, or finding resources for an unhoused patron, these small victories remind us of the profound impact libraries have on people’s lives.

A Celebration of Purpose

The heart of library work isn’t in the policies, the systems, or the endless tasks we manage. It’s in the stories—the ones we help others create and the ones we create for ourselves through the connections we make.

So, on those tough days, when it feels like everything is going wrong, I try to hold on to those moments of joy. They’re small, but they’re mighty, and they make all the difference.

What are the moments that remind you of why you love library work? I’d love to hear your stories.

With joy and gratitude,
The Compassionate Librarian

Compassion Fatigue in Library Work: Recognizing It and Reclaiming Your Energy

Compassion Fatigue: Running on Empty

I'd like to share a little about compassion fatigue because I have a lot of experience working in a public library with many different community member and that includes unhoused patrons. It can sometimes be very difficult to balance out your work and your internal feelings on helping others. I always say that library work has many rewards, but it can also take a lot out of you and for a variety of different reasons. We are continually pouring our hearts into serving our communities and unfortunately when we over do it, compassion fatigue can sneak up when we least expect it. It can sometimes be hard to detect though, and you might think it's just burnout, but compassion fatigue is a bit heavier in your soul—a lingering weariness so to speak that stems from consistently giving so much of ourselves to others, but as I mentioned in another post, you can pour from an empty cup, so you really need to be aware of how you are feeling and the signs to look for. 

What is Compassion Fatigue?

So, let's dive into this and start to unpack what compassion fatigue is all about. Compassion fatigue is the physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that comes from caring for others, especially in emotionally challenging environments. It’s very common among library staff who support vulnerable populations, manage high-stress interactions, or carry the weight of their community’s needs.

Signs of Compassion Fatigue:

• Feeling emotionally drained or detached.
• A sense of dread when going to work.
• Physical symptoms like fatigue or headaches.
• Difficulty finding joy in the work you once loved.

How I Began to Heal

I’ve experienced compassion fatigue firsthand, and it’s not easy to admit when you’re struggling. There was a time when I felt utterly depleted after dealing with stressful situations, compounded by the demands of daily library work. What helped me was taking small, intentional steps to prioritize my well-being:

1. Acknowledging the Struggle:
   The first step was recognizing that what I was feeling wasn’t weakness—it's hard to do this, but I had to understand that it was a natural response to prolonged emotional stress.

2. Setting Boundaries:
   I learned to say no to tasks that exceeded my capacity and to create space for myself, even if just for a few minutes during the workday.

3. Seeking Support:
   Talking to colleagues who understood the challenges of library work was incredibly validating. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone can make all the difference.

4. Rediscovering Joy:
   I made it a point to focus on the small moments that brought me happiness, like a kind word from a patron or the satisfaction of organizing a new display.

Reclaiming Your Energy

If you feel like you are going through compassion fatigue, here are some steps to help you heal:

• Pause and Reflect:
  Take time to acknowledge how you’re feeling without judgment. Journaling can help you process emotions and identify what’s causing stress.

• Practice Restorative Activities:
  Whether it’s yoga, reading, or taking a walk in nature, find activities that help you recharge. Even small moments of rest can make a big difference.

• Focus on What You Can Control:
  Shift your energy toward things you can positively influence and let go of what’s beyond your control.

• Celebrate Small Wins:
  Remember the positive impact of your work. Reflect on the lives you’ve touched and the difference you make every day.

Remember, taking care of yourself is an act of strength. Compassion fatigue doesn’t diminish the incredible work you do—it’s a reminder to show yourself the same care you give to others. And please always seek mental health help or reach out to professionals if needed. 

What are your experiences with compassion fatigue and how did you manage or get through it? I'd love to hear from you. Please hare your thoughts in the comments.

Take care,

the Compassionate Librarian

What is Self-Care and Why We Need It

When you think of the term self-care, what comes to mind? For many, it might evoke images of bubble baths, yoga sessions, or a spa day—and while those are great examples, self-care goes far beyond especially if you are experiencing stressors in your work or in your personal lives.

At its core, self-care is about intentionally taking steps to nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. With my holistic health background, I'd call that mind, body, & spirit. It goes a little bit further than that for those of us who are in the field of library work. I'll say this from my direct experiencing working with the public, managing incidents and disruptions daily, and experiencing compassion fatigue, self-care is a necessity.

Library staff often carry the weight of compassion fatigue, the demands of helping diverse communities, and the mental strain of navigating tough days. Without self-care, it’s easy to burn out and feel overwhelmed.

If we look at the many ways that we can utilize self-care, we can see that it isn’t a one-size-fits-all. It can access a variety of different options to help ourselves such as:

• Setting boundaries with our time and energy

• Taking a mindful moment to breathe in the midst of a chaotic day

• Prioritizing rest and relaxation

• Practicing saying no every once in a while

• Trying not to over commit ourselves

• Finding joy in small and meaningful moments

Why do we need self-care? Because we literally can’t pour from an empty cup. When we take care of ourselves, we are preserving our own energy and well-being—and this helps us to be better equipped to serve our community, support our team, and show up fully for the work that we really do love.

Try this out for the next few weeks. When it comes to self-care if you are thinking “I don’t have time for this” try and change that thought to “I deserve this.” Because you need to take care of yourself and remember to refill your cup.

What are your thoughts on working in libraries and taking time for self-care? Share your thoughts in the comments I’d love to hear your perspective!

All the best,

the Compassionate Librarian