Connecting the Dots - Wearing Too Many Hats

It’s All About the Hats

I've spent the last several weeks designing an ALA eLearning course called Wearing Too Many Hats. When I say "hats," I mean the many roles, responsibilities, skills, and strengths that you bring to your library every day. Some hats are assigned. Others are earned. Some you choose because they bring you joy. Combined together, these hats tell the story of your growth as a library professional. 

For this new course, I’ve explored everything from time management and communication to making our work more visible and finding balance through all of this. One theme that has continued to rise to the surface is that we all need to find what library work brings us joy. 

So, It’s true if you work in a library you’re actually going to wear a lot of hats

It's one of the realities of the profession. On any given day, we wear all kinds of hats. We can be technology troubleshooters, event planners, give reading recommendations, manage library social media, supervise, go on outreach events, write grants, connect with the community, be a mentor, and so much more. We often move from one role to the next without even thinking about it.

Wearing different hats is one of the reasons that many of us love library work. Every day brings something different, new challenges, and opportunities to make a difference in our communities.

At the same time, wearing too many hats can also feel like a lot. There are days when the hats seem to multiply faster than we can keep up with them. New initiatives, competing priorities, unexpected challenges, and the desire to serve our communities can leave us feeling like we're trying to be everything for everyone.

I’d like to think that wearing all these different hats is a way for us to try new things out to see if we like them or not. If we do then yay! We will keep that hat for sure. If we don’t, then boo! Maybe that’s a hat that we exchange for another or just hang it up for good. 

Finding Hats That Bring You Joy

One of the most beautiful things about working in a library is that you can shine in so many different ways.

Some of us come alive when we’re doing programs. Others find joy in readers' advisory conversations, planning community events, building partnerships, creating welcoming displays, mentoring new staff, working with local schools, or developing accessible collections. Some thrive behind the scenes solving problems, while others enjoy connecting directly with the public every day.

And let’s face it, the hats that bring us joy might not be the same ones that bring others joy. We are all unique like that and that’s what makes the library such a special place!

In fact, I think that's one of the greatest strengths of the library profession.

Libraries need people with different talents, different interests, and different passions. Together, those differences create stronger libraries and stronger communities.

As your career grows, pay attention to the hats that leave you feeling energized rather than exhausted.

Which projects make you excited to come to work?

Which responsibilities make you lose track of time?

Which moments remind you why you wanted to work in a library?

These moments matter. They're often the moments that remind us why we chose to work in a library in the first place. 

The one thing I really want to emphasize here is that while we can't always choose every responsibility or hat we take on, we can begin looking for opportunities that allow us to spend more time doing the work that brings us more purpose and fulfillment.

The Key to Balance

Finding balance isn't only about discovering the work that brings you joy.

It's also about recognizing that you don't have to carry everything by yourself.

Libraries are collaborative places. We can also try to tap into our colleagues’ knowledge, strengths, and experiences . Sometimes support comes from the coworker down the hall who is always willing to brainstorm ideas. Sometimes it's a supervisor who encourages you to try something new. Sometimes it's a volunteer who faithfully shows up every week, a trusted mentor, a conference friend, or another librarian you've never even met in person but who somehow always knows exactly what you're going through.

Support can also come from professional organizations, online communities, authors, editors, presenters, or colleagues you've connected with through webinars and conferences.

The important thing is recognizing that your support system already exists and if it doesn't exist, there’s also the opportunity to try and build your own.

Creating Your Own Support Map

One activity I've found especially meaningful is creating a simple Support Map to help you think about who you can rely on for support and also if you need mentoring. 

Think about the people who encourage you.

Who do you call when you need advice?

Who celebrates your successes?

Who inspires you to try something new?

Who loves everything about working in a library?

Who gives you tips, pointers, tricks of the trade?

As you begin writing down names, you might even discover that your support system is larger than you realized.

You might also notice places where you'd like to strengthen a relationship or build a new connection. Maybe it's becoming more involved in your state library association or maybe it's reaching out to someone you admire. Maybe it's finding a mentor or even becoming one. Those are all total possibilities and absolutely achievable! 

Also, remember that a Support Map isn't just about identifying who can help you. It's also a reminder that none of us has to be alone in the library world. In fact, our greatest resources aren’t found on a bookshelf or in a database. Our greatest resource is the people we meet along the way.

The Power of Encouragement

One final thought.

As you think about the people on your Support Map, ask yourself one more question.

Here's a question for you. Whose Support Map might you be on?

Perhaps you're the coworker who always listens.

The mentor who encourages someone to apply for a new opportunity.

The supervisor who believes in a new librarian.

The conference friend who shares ideas.

Or simply the person who reminds someone else that they're doing a good job.

Support has a wonderful way of coming full circle. The encouragement we receive often becomes the encouragement we give.

If you can relate to any of this, then you should consider being a mentor. And honestly, you can be a mini mentor or a newby mentor or a full fledged OG mentor and that just means that you find joy in helping and guiding others. 

Connecting the Dots

Finding your balance doesn't really have to mean that you’re wearing fewer hats.

It actually means that you are discovering which hats bring you the most fulfillment or the most joy and recognizing when it's okay to set one down and remembering that there are people who are there to help you and maybe it’s sometimes that you need to let them know that you need help or support. 

I don't really think it's about trying to wear as many hats as you can. It's about wearing the hats that help you grow, build meaningful connections, and find joy in the work you do. When you begin focusing on those hats and find the people who can support you, you'll be well on your way to the next level of your library career. 

Be well,

the Compassionate Librarian

Radical Love in the Library: Seeing the Humanity in Everyone

 Getting to the Heart of Library Work

“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.”

— Rumi

When I think of the library, I think about how much I love being surrounded by books and people all day long. I learned about the concept of radical love a very long time ago and I have always been fascinated by the work of the poet Rumi. Radical love is at the very heart of what we library workers do, especially when we serve those the world has overlooked.

Radical love is not cutesy hearts, flowers or hugs and kisses. It’s not warm and fuzzy. It’s not passive. It’s absolutely fierce. It’s uncomfortable and pushes you out of your comfort zone more times than you will know. It requires presence, humility, and the willingness to sit beside someone dealing with internal pain. The key here is that you can't try to erase their pain, but instead, you must embrace it. 

Let's Talk More About Radical Love

Radical love is the kind of love that reaches past convenience and Rumi well-known for writing about this in his poems. Radical love is a love that sees the humanity in everyone and everything. It is not bound by titles, appearances, or how you feel. It is the kind of love that walks straight into the places others turn away from very much like the things we see on the daily at the library. poverty, addiction, grief, fear. Radical love speaks to our vulnerable neighbors, “You belong here too.”

In library work, we are invited on the daily into opportunities to practice this love.

When we speak kindly to someone who’s unhoused.
When we offer warmth to someone who’s angry.
When we are welcoming to someone who’s afraid to ask for our help.

Radical love is not about being perfect or endlessly self-sacrificing. It’s about recognizing our shared humanity and responding with empathy, not ego.

Love as a Path

Rumi’s version of love isn’t something you fall into. It is a path. A discipline. A practice. A way of returning to the heart again and again. When you think about library work, isn’t that what our calling is after all?

Library work challenges us to let go of our assumptions, check our reactions, and show up with compassion, even when we’re tired, even when we don’t get recognition, even when we ourselves are hurting.

There have been many moments in my own journey over the last twenty years in libraries when I realized:

I’m not here to fix people. I’m here to listen to them. Walk beside them. Hold space for their light, even if they can’t see it yet.

Radical love in the library is about choosing compassion, not because it’s easy, but because it’s necessary. It reminds us that our patrons are not problems to be managed, they are people to be seen.

The Poetry of Service and Connection

“Be like a tree and let the dead leaves drop."

— Rumi

There’s something sacred about serving those who are in need and there’s something poetic about connection that blooms in unexpected places. When someone walks through our doors and feels unseen, ignored, or written off by the world, we have the power to "drop our dead leaves" and help them. With one smile, with one hello, we can transform lives.

These are the moments that stay with us 🦋
The teen who finally feels safe enough to open up.
The elderly patron who finds comfort in friendly conversations.
The person experiencing homelessness who smiles when you say hello or welcome.

Radical love is poetry in motion. It is the line between silence and kindness. The rhythm of showing kindness and compassion again and again. This kind of service allows the dead leaves to drop and new foliage to bloom.

Libraries as Sacred Ground

When we root our work in radical love, the library becomes more than a resource hub, it becomes sacred ground. A place where equity lives, where hope can breathe, where transformation quietly takes root. We don't have to call it spiritual. We don't have to name it anything at all. We know it when we feel it. That still, quiet moment when someone realizes they are welcome in the library makes all the difference in the world.

Reflect With Me

Here are a few reflection questions to consider as you think about radical love in your own library work, especially if you're navigating burnout, compassion fatigue, or disconnection:

• When was the last time you offered a welcoming smile to someone who didn’t expect it and how did it make you feel?

• What barriers have you had to release in order to serve with your heart?
  
  

• Can you remember a time when someone offered you radical love in your work or life?

Final Thoughts

Radical love doesn’t ask us to fix everything. It asks us to show up. To listen and to remember that the library is more than just a building. It’s a place where everyone should be met with warmth. Where the overlooked are welcomed. Where the work of transformation is happening, but very quietly, on most days.

If you’re doing even just a little right now, you’re already walking that path, so kudos to you!

Here’s to the poetry of your service. Here’s to radical love, even when it’s hard. Here’s to seeing the humanity in every person who walks through our doors.

With fierce love,
the Compassionate Librarian

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

Dark Times For Libraries: Keeping the Lights On Together

This is my twentieth year working in a library. I've worked in public and school libraries, and in that time, I’ve seen libraries evolve, adapt, and rise to meet the needs of their communities over and over again. I’ve seen how libraries transform lives, provide safety nets, and bring people together in ways that are quite profound.

🕯️I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a darker time for libraries than right now🕯️

Between budget cuts, the changes with IMLS, and the growing uncertainty about our future, many of us are feeling the weight of it all. It’s a lot to carry and if you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed about it, you’re not alone.

Libraries are often seen as the hub of the community. Did you know that libraries can:

• Offer a safe place for unhoused individuals to rest, recharge, and feel human

• Provide free internet, printing, and access to technology many can’t afford at home

• Help with job applications, resumes, and unemployment benefits

• Guide people through complicated forms, housing applications, and social services

• Answer reference questions, from simple curiosities to urgent health or legal concerns

• Share accurate, reliable information in an age of misinformation

• Offer programs that support early literacy, workforce development, mental health, and more

• Welcome families, teens, seniors, and everyone in between—no questions asked

• Connect people to the world of books, imagination, learning, and lifelong curiosity

The Lake Oswego Library in Oregon helped people get their books by creating their "Librarian is IN" service in the parking lot during the pandemic. Photo courtesy of City of Lake Oswego. 

During the pandemic, many of us were frontline workers. We served our communities at our front doors, sometimes in parking lots like the Lake Oswego Library, and sometimes virtually from our living rooms. Some of us volunteered as disaster workers, answered phones in call centers, distributed supplies, and provided free printing and hotspots for vulnerable populations to help them stay connected. We chatted on the phone with people who just needed a human voice. One woman called simply to hear what was in the collection because she was lonely and missed the sound of someone speaking to her.

My point is that we've never stopped helping and we made it through a very challenging time. We adapted, we pivoted, and we found new ways to serve the public. Because that's what library workers do.

What gives me hope are the people who love and care about libraries. The librarians, the library staff, the volunteers, the patrons, the advocates, the neighbors, our partners, and more. 

I know one thing. Library workers are resilient. When things get hard, we show up and we just keep going. We will figure this out one step at a time.

 

Show Your Support

Here are a few simple ways you can help:

• Write a note to your local representatives about why libraries matter

• Post a memory or message on social media using #LibrariesTransform

• Submit a letter to the editor of your local paper

• Tell a friend, neighbor, or coworker how the library has impacted your life

How Are You Feeling? Don’t Forget to Practice Self-Care

If all of this feels really heavy, just remember that you’re not alone and you don’t have to carry it alone. When we’re under a lot of stress, taking care of ourselves is very important.

Make sure to find time for rest. Try to reach out for support. Do something kind for yourself today.

If you’re looking for guidance, inspiration, or gentle ways to support your own wellbeing, my self-paced course Self-Care for Library Workers will be launching through the American Library Association's eLearning platform. Stay tuned, it should be coming out very soon!

Want to Talk or Share A Story?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed because of the changes that libraries are facing I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to leave a comment or reach out to me directly at teachingmydream@gmail.com.

We can get through this together, 

the Compassionate Librarian 💛

The Reality of Library Work: Beyond the Myths

The Reality of Library Work 

by Kimberli Buckley 

March 2, 2025

Beyond the Myths 

Libraries are often seen y the public as quiet, stress-free environments where library staff spend their days reading books and enjoying the silence. While that’s a comforting image, the reality of library work is far more complex. I’d love to explore the common misconceptions we hear everyday, the reality of the emotional toll of public service work, and the deeper truths behind library work. 

Common Misconceptions About Library Work 

Many people assume that working in a library is easy and low-pressure, but those within the field know better. Here are some of the most common misconceptions, along with real-life examples: 

1. Libraries Are Always Quiet – While some libraries do have quiet spaces, many are now bustling community hubs. In an urban public library, staff often manage noise levels from group study sessions, children’s programs, and community events while still providing a welcoming space for all. 

2. You Get to Read Books All Day – Far from it! Library workers juggle tasks such as managing digital collections, assisting patrons with job applications, and teaching computer literacy. For example, in a library, library staff may spend the morning troubleshooting technology issues for seniors and the afternoon coordinate a literacy program for youth. 

3. Libraries Are No Longer Needed  – Really? Despite the rise of digital resources, libraries remain essential. They provide free internet access, free access to books and materials, literacy programs, research assistance, and a safe space for vulnerable community members. For example, many libraries act as a lifeline for residents who lack Internet access at home, have no printers or scanners, and can also give assistance navigating the web, which can help with job searching. Some libraries offer digital eBook collections, where items can be checked out and read on their tablets or phones. Library catalogs are mostly all online now, gone are the old card catalogs. With that in mind, libraries just seem to continue to keep up in this ever-changing  digital world! 

4. Library Work Is Low-Stress – Not so much. Dealing with the public, managing budgets, adapting to changing technology, and addressing social issues like homelessness and mental health crises all contribute to significant workplace stress. A library worker in a busy city branch might find themselves de-escalating a conflict between two patrons while simultaneously troubleshooting a system outage. Many libraries now have to have security on staff to manage the difficult or more challenging patrons.  

The Emotional and Psychological Toll of Working with the Public 

Library workers serve diverse communities, which can be rewarding but also emotionally challenging. Public service roles often involve: 

● Compassion Fatigue – Constantly helping patrons in need, particularly those facing homelessness, addiction, or other crises, can take an emotional toll. Library staff might begin to feel drained after spending each day helping unhoused patrons with their needs, such as finding housing, staying out of the harsh outdoor elements, food, clothing, medical attention, and much more. Unfortunately, the compassion that we feel for our unhoused patrons can take a toll on us and drain our internal batteries down. That’s why taking time to provide self-care for yourself is a must for library workers that frequently work with vulnerable populations.  

● Burnout – Balancing administrative tasks, programming, and frontline service while maintaining emotional energy can lead to exhaustion. Many library workers, for example, may find themselves overwhelmed by increasing demands of tasks to do with low staffing or hiring freezes and with that also comes very limited funding and resources. 

● Conflict Resolution – Library workers often de-escalate conflicts, handle difficult patrons, and navigate emotionally charged situations, adding to workplace stress. An academic librarian might frequently mediate between students and faculty over resource disputes. 

● Mental Capacity – The pressure of meeting community needs with often-limited resources creates an ongoing mental burden. Working solo  in a smaller library, you may need to act as a one-person band, handling the programming, reference, computer help, and clerical work all at one time. 

Discussion of the Common Myths of Library Work 

Beyond individual misconceptions, there are broader myths about the profession that shape public perception: 

● Libraries Are Only About Books – In reality, libraries are community centers offering job assistance, digital literacy training, and mental health resources. Some library staff may spend more time programming and doing outreach. It’s not all about books as some may think. 

● Library Jobs Are Easy To Get – Professional library work sometimes requires specialized degrees such as a Master’s in Library Science, or Library Tech Certificate. Sometime they require experience in skills  from research expertise to program development to crisis intervention.  

● Library Workers Don’t Face Workplace Challenges – This is entirely untrue. Sometimes, the job comes with security concerns, staff shortages, patron complaints, book challenges, and evolving public service demands that require adaptability and resilience. Libraries in more socioeconomically disadvantaged communities struggle with funding, while other libraries in different states might have to navigate political challenges. 

Tips for Handling Overbearing Misconceptions 

For library workers, addressing misconceptions from the public is an ongoing challenge. Here are some ways to handle it effectively: 

1. Educate with Patience – Instead of becoming frustrated, use misconceptions as teachable moments. If someone insists that libraries are no longer relevant, share examples of how they provide essential digital literacy and career development services. 

2. Set Boundaries – Some patrons may expect librarians to be personal tech support, therapists, or social workers. Gently redirect them to appropriate resources while reinforcing the library’s role. 

3. Share Your Personal Experiences – Sometimes, sharing a brief story about a challenging day at the library can help others understand the complexity of the work. 

4. Advocate for the Profession – Public perception shifts when library workers confidently share their expertise and value. Engaging in advocacy efforts through social media or professional organizations can help shift the narrative. 

Final Thoughts 

For many, library work is deeply meaningful and we know from hearing about or experiencing this ourselves. However, there are situations that arise that can be emotionally and mentally demanding. One of the most important things to do is to acknowledge that we are going to hear these myths and misconceptions, but we really need to not take it to heart. Acknowledging these challenges doesn’t diminish our passion that we bring to this field, it actually strengthens our ability to advocate for our own well-being. Someone mentioned to me recently, why aren’t there more television shows or movies about what it’s like to work in a library? It is true, we don’t see that very often. It could possibly be due to all of these myths that people still think we are just sitting around reading books all day at the library and that wouldn't make for a very good show. In contrast to this idea, the movie The Public by Emilio Esteves showcases a lot of what it's like to work at a library. There are a lot of Hollywood stars and some over the top situations, but many of these have occurred at libraries and will continue to happen. 

By debunking the myths or misconceptions, we can foster a greater understanding of the realities of library work while highlighting the incredible impact libraries have on their communities. When we stand up and speak out about the value of libraries, we can ensure that library workers are recognized for their essential contributions and help create a future where we can thrive.

Pause, Breathe, & Take Time For Yourself

If You’re Reading This, You Might Just Be in Need of Some Self-Care

If you find yourself here at the Compassionate Librarian blog you might be in need of some self-care. The first thing you can do is pause for a moment and take a deep breath. Maybe you’ve been running on empty, giving your all at work, or just feeling stretched too thin. It happens to the best of us. The good news is you can take some time for yourself to practice self-care.

Some days, it’s easy to juggle everything with a smile. But other days? Not so much. Today, for example, I’m not feeling well, and managing my own energy is hard enough—let alone handling complaints, endless questions, and unexpected issues at the library. On days like this, it’s easy to put yourself last because everything feels urgent. But that’s exactly when self-care becomes most important.

What does self-care look like on tough days?
It doesn’t have to be big or elaborate. Sometimes it’s about doing what you can—even if it’s small:

• Take a break. Step away for five minutes, even if it’s just to breathe or drink water.
• Lower the bar. Give yourself permission to do the essentials and let go of perfection.
• Create a small comfort ritual. Have a cup of tea, put on music that calms you, or take a short walk around the building.
• Ask for help. Lean on your team when you need it. We’re better when we support each other.
• Remind yourself: This moment will pass. Hard days come and go. Be kind to yourself in the middle of it all.

The reality is, working with the public service can be really demanding. We show up for others, often when we’re not at our best. But self-care is what makes it sustainable. It’s not selfish—it’s survival.

So, if you’re reading this, take a moment for yourself today if you can, if not please try for tomorrow. You’ve earned it. And if all you do is breathe deeply and remind yourself you’re doing your best, that’s enough.

Sending super big hugs!

the Compassionate Librarian

Winter Weather Can be Dangerous for Those Without Shelter

Winter can be a difficult season, but for anyone experiencing homelessness, it can be life-threatening. Here in California, we may not get snow, but cold rain and dropping temperatures still pose serious risks for the unhoused community. Across the country, the weather becomes even harsher—bitter winds, freezing temperatures, and heavy snowfall create dangerous conditions for anyone living outdoors.

Just last week, I witnessed firsthand how quickly cold weather can take a toll. An unhoused man was walking outside the library in the rain, looking exhausted. He eventually laid down on the walkway leading up to the front door. At first, I thought he might just be resting. But then he started jerking upright suddenly and lying back down again. It was clear something was wrong.

I called 911, and EMTs arrived shortly after to assist him. It was a sobering reminder of how dangerous winter weather can be and how important it is for library staff to recognize when someone might need help. The EMTs told me that it was a good thing that I had called them and explained that the man was suffering from hypothermia, a dangerous drop in body temperature caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions, which lead to his confusion, muscle weakness, and he could have even gone unconscious if he was left untreated.

The Danger of Cold Weather for Unhoused Individuals

Exposure to the elements can quickly lead to serious health issues, including:

• Hypothermia: When body temperature drops too low, causing confusion, unconsciousness, and even death if untreated.
• Frostbite: Especially in colder climates, frostbite can damage skin and tissue in minutes.
• Respiratory Illnesses: Living outside in cold, wet weather can lead to severe illnesses like pneumonia.

How to Respond if an Unhoused Person Needs Medical Help

As library staff, you might be the first to notice when someone needs medical attention. Here’s what you can do:

1️⃣ Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

• Observe from a safe distance. If the person appears unconscious, confused, or unresponsive, call 911 immediately.

2️⃣ Call for Emergency Help

• Be clear and detailed with the dispatcher: describe what’s happening, your location, and any visible symptoms.

3️⃣ Offer Assistance, If Possible

• If the person is alert and able to speak, offer them a blanket or direct them to a nearby shelter or warming center.

4️⃣ Know Your Local Resources

• Have a list of shelters, warming centers, and outreach services. Sometimes, just offering information can help someone find warmth and safety.

Take A Compassionate Approach

It’s not always easy to know what to do, but it’s always okay to err on the side of caution. Calling 911 can be a lifesaving decision. And while it’s impossible to solve the larger crisis of homelessness on your own, responding with compassion and kindness makes an immediate difference.

Remember, our kindness is really important when it comes to helping unhoused patrons. It’s about being part of the community—helping where you can, and sometimes just being a steady, caring presence when someone needs it most.

Stay warm, stay safe, and stay compassionate. ❤️

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