Welcome to The Consciousness Archives

 

                    The Consciousness Archives:

A cosmic exploration of spirit, storytelling, and the soul of librarianship

I am putting this new blog series out into the universe. The focus is somewhere between the nature of consciousness and the chaos of the returns desk, between ancient myths and modern burnout, between sacred scrolls and staff meetings. That's a lot of wide open space to cover and a lot of cosmic energy to summon, and yet that's exactly where this new blog series belongs. 

Let's dig deep into the depths of our library souls and focus on:

Why we do what we do
Who we are beneath the badge, the title, and the book bag

Libraries are in a state of emergency

Emotionally - Spiritually - Existentially

We are underfunded, undervalued, and overextended. Or as George Washington in Hamilton would say, "We are outgunned, outmanned, outnumbered, and outplanned."

Here's an idea: Let's weaponize our compassion. Let's set our energy together, collectively.
Think about this too. 

Why do we stay? 

We do we keep showing up?

This is why: We fan the flames of truth and information, we share the stories, and we are the protectors of the library.

My plan for this blog is big. I want it to be a space to remember what’s been lost, and to never doubt that there is still so much hope and possibility for libraries still. 

What this series is about:

• A reflective, sometimes playful, always meaningful exploration of the deeper dimensions of library work.

• A fusion of myth, metaphor, philosophy, psychology, and good library spirit.

• A personal archive of insights drawn from my experiences as a library manager, educator, mentor, and survivor of more than one epic workplace plot twist.

What It Is Not About:

It’s not about fixing the system it’s about reclaiming what's been hollowed out within it.

What You’ll Find In The Consciousness Archives:

• Musings about the shadow side of librarianship.

• Reflections on burnout, resilience, leadership, and many stories.

• Thoughtful experiments 

• Invitations to explore your own personal myth or bag o’ burdens (yes, you’re allowed to unpack it here).

• Consciousness-raising activities and journal prompts to reconnect with your inner library spirit.

This is the series I wish had existed when I was burning out in silence.
This is for the library worker crying in the breakroom.
This is for the library student unsure if they made the right choice.
This is for the library staff that want to change careers

This is for you if you're reading this. 
Because maybe, just maybe, it's not about archiving files and books right now.
Maybe it's about archiving the human experience.

Let’s get cosmic

Let’s get conscious

Let’s remember who we are

The Consciousness Archives begins now.

Stay strong,

the Compassionate Librarian

The Healing Power of Music: A Soundtrack for Self-Care

There’s something magical about music. A single song can shift your mood, ground your thoughts, or lift your spirits in just a few notes. For me, music has always been one of the simplest—and most powerful—forms of self-care. Whether I’m winding down after a long day, needing a confidence boost, or just looking for something to make me smile, I turn to my personal soundtrack.

Music as a Self-Care Tool

Did you know that listening to music can be a self-care tool? Yes! It can be an awesome self-care tool. You don’t need a fancy playlist (though curating one is part of the fun). All you need is a few songs that really speak to you.

Here are some of the ways music supports emotional and mental well-being:

Calming Songs for Stress Relief

Soft, slow melodies can help lower your heart rate and bring your nervous system back to baseline. Perfect for anxious moments or quiet time. I call this my "Breathe & Reset" playlist.

Power Ballads & Anthems for Strength
Need a pick-me-up before a big presentation or tough conversation? Cue the empowering songs. The ones that make you stand taller, sing louder, and feel unstoppable. My "You’ve Got This" soundtrack is full of them.

Feel-Good Songs for Joy
These are the songs that make you dance in the kitchen, sing in the car, or just smile out of nowhere. I keep a playlist I call "Instant Joy" for those exact moments.

Music simply meets you where you are—and that’s the essence of self-care.

Why Music Works as Self-Care

• Music reduces stress. Listening to music has been shown to decrease the stress hormone cortisol. According to an article in Harmony & Healing, a study was conducted by the British Academy of Sound that found 74% of participants reported that calming music helped them to reduce anxiety and improve their state of rest, a marker of stress resilience.

• It boosts your mood. Music activates the brain's reward center, releasing dopamine—the “feel good” chemical. This is especially true for songs that evoke strong emotional memories or have a beat we love.

• It improves focus and sleep. Certain types of music can improve concentration and even help you fall asleep faster. Research from the National Sleep Foundation found that people who listened to music before bed reported better sleep quality.

• It connects us to others. Shared playlists, concerts, or even hearing a familiar song in a public place can create a sense of community and belonging—which is a powerful form of emotional support.

• It encourages movement. Upbeat songs naturally make us want to move, which helps release endorphins and boost our energy levels—even if we’re just dancing around the kitchen.

According to an article by the American Psychological Association, music has played a large part of helping COVID patients with delirium recover. Music's power over our brains is quite phenomenal.

Your Personal Soundtrack = Your Self-Care Toolkit

One of my favorite ways to use music as self-care is to create playlists based on my needs. I went through a long period of distress after having a catastrophic surgery that left me wondering my place in the world. I don't know how I found it or maybe it found me, but the music of German DJ and record producer TheFatRat changed my life. I listened to the soundtrack for in 2021 for at least a year. It got me through my transition in life, through writing my first book, which was laborious and intense. It got me through so much and I will never forget how it makes me feel. I'll share the songs below and what they mean to me and why I love them so much. I realize that TheFatRat may not be your cup of tea, but for me it is a shining light that got me through my darkest days. 

TheFatRat with Anna Yvette & Laura Brehm - Chosen - There's just something special about this song. If you’ve ever needed a reminder that you are stronger than you think—that your voice matters and your path is yours to walk—“Chosen” is that reminder wrapped in music.

TheFatRat feat. Laura Brehm - Mayday - captures the feeling of being on the edge—calling out for help when everything feels like it’s crashing down. It’s a raw and vulnerable track, yet there’s strength woven into every note.

TheFatRat - No No No - are you trying to practice putting up boundaries in your life? This song will help you say no no no. Whether you’re saying no to overworking, toxic relationships, unrealistic expectations, or anything that drains your energy, this track gives you permission to hold your ground.

TheFatRat - Infinite Power - Need a burst of motivation to get you moving, focused, or just fired up to tackle the day? This song is pure energy in audio form.

I could keep going, but these are probably my top favorites.

Different Themes for Musical Self-Care

Breathe & Reset – My go-to for stress, anxiety, or when I just need to calm my nervous system.

You’ve Got This – Powerful songs and energizing anthems that help me show up with confidence and courage.

Instant Joy – The feel-good songs that never fail to lift my spirits and make me smile (or dance in the living room!).

What’s on Your Playlist?

Drop a comment or message me with your favorite self-care songs—and let’s co-create a playlist filled with hope, healing, and harmony, the total self-care package!

Because sometimes, the best way to care for yourself…
is to hit play. 

Wishing you joyful moments and music that moves you!

the Compassionate Librarian

From Passion to Profit: Turning Your Creative Outlets into a Side Gig

As library workers, we are natural lifelong learners, researchers, and creatives. Every day, we engage with information, help patrons discover new resources, and bring communities together. But outside of work, many of us have creative passions—writing, crafting, photography, graphic design, or even teaching workshops.

What if your creative outlets could also become a fulfilling side job?

Turning your skills and interests into a side hustle isn’t just about making extra income. It’s about investing in yourself, finding balance beyond your library job, and embracing the creative energy that likely brought you into the field in the first place.

Why a Side Gig Can Be a Great Fit for Library Workers

1. Library Skills Are Transferable – Many of the skills we use in the library—research, organization, tech literacy, storytelling, programming—can translate beautifully into a side gig. Whether it’s writing research-based articles, curating book subscription boxes, or creating online courses, you already have valuable knowledge that others may be willing to pay for.

2. A Way to Channel Your Creativity – Library work can be inspiring, but it can also be draining. Having a creative side project gives you a space to explore your own interests without the constraints of policies, budgets, or bureaucracy.

3. Financial Flexibility – A little extra income from something you love doing can help with unexpected expenses, savings, or even funding professional development opportunities like conferences or certifications.

4. Helping Others Beyond the Library – Many library workers go into the field because they love helping people. A side gig—whether it’s tutoring, running a book blog, or offering research assistance—allows you to extend that passion beyond your workplace.

5. A Fun Exit Strategy (If You Ever Need One!) – While libraries are a calling for many, others may eventually seek a new path. A side gig can be a stepping stone to something bigger, whether that’s full-time freelance work, opening a small business, or transitioning to a different career altogether.

Side Gig Ideas for Library Workers

Not sure what kind of side hustle would work for you? Here are some ideas based on common library skills and interests:

📚 Writing & Editing – Start a book blog, freelance as an editor, or write reviews for publications.
🎨 Graphic Design & Digital Art – Design library-related merchandise (stickers, tote bags, bookmarks) and sell them on Etsy or Redbubble.
📖 Book Subscription or Curation Services – Create custom reading lists or offer book subscription boxes tailored to different interests.
🎤 Podcasting or YouTube Content – Share library life stories, book recommendations, or how-to videos for research skills.
🧶 Crafting & Handmade Goods – Sell handmade items like embroidery, knitting, or laser-cut designs.
📷 Photography & Digital Media – Offer event photography services for local organizations or sell stock photos.
📝 Tutoring & Research Assistance – Help students, writers, or businesses with research skills, resume writing, or academic editing.
💻 Tech Help & Web Design – Create simple websites, manage social media accounts, or offer digital literacy workshops.
📚 Hosting Virtual or In-Person Workshops – Teach skills like genealogy research, resume building, or creative writing.

How to Get Started with Your Side Gig

1. Find Your Niche – Think about what you love doing in and outside the library. What do people ask you for help with? What skills do you enjoy using?

2. Start Small – Test the waters by offering your service to a few people, setting up a small Etsy shop, or creating a blog or social media page.

3. Set Realistic Goals – Do you want to make extra income, build a new career path, or just enjoy a creative outlet? Define success in a way that works for you.

4. Make Time for It – Library work is busy, but even setting aside a few hours a week can help build momentum.

5. Market Yourself (Without Feeling Weird About It) – Start with your network! Share your work with friends, family, and colleagues, and don’t be afraid to talk about what you’re creating.

You Deserve to Create Something for Yourself

Library work can be rewarding, but you deserve to have a creative outlet. Whether you dream of running your own business or just want a hobby that brings in a little extra money, your skills and passions are worth investing in.

So, what’s stopping you? Your side gig could be the perfect way to bring even more joy, creativity, and balance into your life.

Here’s to creativity, passion, and purpose!

the Compassionate Librarian