Commitment to community and self care

Commitment to self and community care is essential for trauma-informed librarianship as it recognizes the importance of maintaining the well-being of both librarians and the communities they serve. Librarians must prioritize self-care practices to prevent burnout and compassion fatigue, ensuring they can continue to provide effective support to patrons. Additionally, librarians should advocate for community resources and partnerships that promote holistic well-being, addressing the diverse needs of trauma survivors beyond the scope of library services. Here’s how Commitment to self and community care relates to each of the principles:

1. Safety: Commitment to self and community care plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both patrons and staff within the library environment. By prioritizing self-care practices among staff members, such as setting boundaries, managing stress, and seeking support when needed, librarians can maintain their mental and emotional well-being, which in turn enhances their ability to provide a safe and supportive space for patrons. Additionally, promoting community care initiatives, such as mental health resources and support groups, contributes to creating a culture of collective well-being, where individuals feel valued and supported.
2. Trustworthiness & transparency: Demonstrating a commitment to self and community care reinforces trustworthiness and transparency within the library. When staff prioritize their own well-being and model healthy behaviors, they build credibility and trust with patrons, who feel reassured that they are interacting with individuals who are emotionally equipped to support them effectively. Transparent communication about self-care practices and community resources fosters an environment where openness and honesty are valued, strengthening the bond of trust between staff and patrons.
3. Peer support: Commitment to self and community care encourages peer support initiatives within the library, where staff members actively support each other’s well-being. By acknowledging the importance of self-care and community support, librarians create a culture of mutual care and empathy, where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and offering assistance to their colleagues. Peer support networks provide a valuable source of emotional support, validation, and encouragement, contributing to a positive work environment and enhancing staff resilience.
4. Collaboration & mutuality: Self and community care promote collaboration and mutuality among library staff, as individuals come together to prioritize the well-being of both themselves and their community. Collaborative efforts to implement self-care practices and community care initiatives strengthen bonds among staff members, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. By working together to address collective needs and challenges, librarians demonstrate mutual respect and support, creating a culture of care and interconnectedness within the library community.
5. Empowerment, voice, & choice: Commitment to self and community care empowers individuals to prioritize their own well-being and make informed choices about their health and self-care practices. By encouraging autonomy and self-advocacy, librarians empower patrons to take ownership of their mental and emotional health, promoting a sense of agency and empowerment. Providing access to community care resources and promoting self-care education equips patrons with the tools and knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, empowering them to advocate for their own needs within the library environment.
6. Cultural, historical, & gender issues: Self and community care initiatives should be sensitive to cultural, historical, and gender factors that influence individuals’ experiences of well-being and care. Recognizing and respecting diverse cultural practices, historical traumas, and gender identities is essential for promoting inclusive and equitable care within the library community. Librarians should strive to create culturally responsive self-care and community care programs that address the unique needs and experiences of all patrons, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural safety within the library environment.

Commitment to community and self-care is crucial for libraries for several reasons:

1. Supporting patrons: Libraries are community spaces that serve diverse populations with varying needs. A commitment to community ensures that libraries actively engage with and respond to the needs of their patrons. By prioritizing community well-being, libraries can offer relevant resources, services, and programs that address local concerns and promote social cohesion.
2. Building trust and relationships: Demonstrating a commitment to community fosters trust and strengthens relationships between libraries and their patrons. When patrons see that libraries are invested in their well-being and the broader community, they are more likely to view the library as a trusted resource and partner. This trust forms the foundation for meaningful collaboration and engagement.
3. Promoting equity and inclusion: A commitment to community involves recognizing and valuing the diversity of experiences and perspectives within the community. Libraries that prioritize inclusivity and equity strive to create welcoming and accessible spaces where all community members feel respected and represented. This commitment is essential for addressing systemic inequalities and promoting social justice within the library and beyond.
4. Encouraging self-care: Libraries play a vital role in promoting lifelong learning and personal development. By advocating for self-care practices, libraries empower individuals to prioritize their well-being and resilience. This can include providing resources on mental health, offering programs on stress management, or creating spaces for relaxation and reflection. Supporting self-care not only benefits individual patrons but also contributes to a healthier and more resilient community overall.
5. Sustaining library workers: Librarians are integral to the functioning of libraries, and their well-being directly impacts the quality of service they provide to patrons. A commitment to self-care acknowledges the importance of supporting librarians’ physical, emotional, and mental health. This may involve implementing policies that promote work-life balance, providing opportunities for professional development and growth, or fostering a culture of mutual support and care among library staff.

A commitment to community and self-care is essential for libraries to fulfill their mission of serving as vibrant hubs of learning, connection, and empowerment. By prioritizing community needs, promoting inclusivity, and supporting self-care practices, libraries can create more resilient, equitable, and thriving communities.

Trauma-informed librarianship encompasses care for both patrons and librarians themselves. Vocational awe, a term coined by Fobazi Ettarh^[1], captures the idealized perception of library work and librarianship, often leading to unrealistic expectations and exploitation of library workers. This concept underscores the importance of addressing systemic issues within the profession, such as low wages, burnout, and emotional labor, while advocating for fair treatment and recognition of library workers. Recognizing the emotionally challenging nature of library work, adopting this approach allows us to confront the realities of our profession. While many of us were initially drawn to libraries by idealized notions of their impact, embracing a trauma-informed approach empowers us to acknowledge and address the personal toll of our work.

Karina Hagelin states that in their research, they have observed that most literature about supporting survivors in libraries tends to focus solely on patrons as survivors. However, they note that it is also crucial to recognize that anyone can be a survivor, including both patrons and colleagues^[2]. Supporting survivors in libraries encompasses both self-care and community care; it entails being present for one another to the fullest extent possible and contributing our individual talents and abilities towards liberation^[3]. In “Indigenous Information Literacy: nêhiyaw Kinship Enabling Self-Care in Research,” by Jessie Loyer, she states that “kinship dictates that librarians, in their research relationships with students, create space in research for self-care, particularly when re- search is traumatic and violent. This is a component of information literacy: how to find good research, how to assess it, but also how to assess its effect on our lives. We do not do research only mentally; emotional, spiritual, and physical health must be factors in how we teach students about accessing information.”^[4] In other words, embracing radical vulnerability and self-love, recognizing our inherent interdependence, and prioritizing our own well-being can cultivate a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere for all by allowing us to carve out space for ourselves and enabling others to express their authentic selves.

Trauma informed librarianship in praxis

“Serving in a vocation rings differently than working at a job. It implies a sense of lifelong devotion to a sacred cause that is rooted deeply within the soul, within one’s sense of identity. It both extends the institutional shield of goodness against criticism to the library work itself and establishes an expectation of the performance of quasi-religious devotion, or passion, on the part of the library worker. When passion is the metric by which we determine our success as librarians, those of us who are unable to ascribe to this zealous standard of devotion are marginalized and positioned as dispassionate “bad librarians.” Although this expectation of devotion can be seen to override our own wellbeing, in the context of an institution with official core values that include democracy, service, and social responsibility, it feels unnatural, unappreciative, and disloyal to point it out—even in the pursuit of upholding the values our profession espouses.”^[5]

In this article, the authors illuminate the challenge of vocational awe, shedding light on how it can instill a sense of personal inadequacy among library workers who find themselves unable to dedicate the time, energy, and resources expected of them to their profession. Vocational awe is a pervasive phenomenon within the library profession, where work transcends mere employment and becomes a deeply ingrained sense of identity and purpose. It suggests that librarianship is not just a job but a calling—an unwavering commitment to a sacred cause that defines one’s very being. However, this elevation of vocational devotion often comes at a cost, as it establishes unrealistic expectations of quasi-religious fervor from library workers. Those who cannot meet this ardent standard of passion risk being labeled as dispassionate or inadequate, contributing to feelings of marginalization and self-doubt. Despite the toll it takes on our well-being, challenging this expectation feels taboo, as it contradicts the institutional values of democracy, service, and social responsibility. Thus, navigating the balance between vocational devotion and self-care becomes a delicate act of asserting boundaries while upholding the ideals of our profession.

However, trauma-informed librarianship represents a transformative approach to challenging this paradigm. Self-care and community care form the bedrock of trauma-informed librarianship. Engaging in self-care entails acknowledging your own experiences of trauma and creating space to address and heal from those wounds. Meanwhile, community care extends beyond simply fostering relationships with patrons and expanding resources—it also involves recognizing the limitations of individual librarians and embracing collaboration and partnerships as avenues for collective support and empowerment. In essence, community care, achieved through collaborative efforts and partnerships, becomes a vital component of self-care for library workers.

Separating personal values and work values

Key to this is differentiating between personal values and work values because it allows you to establish boundaries at work that protect your well-being and uphold your principles. Oftentimes, library staff become enmeshed with their career, meaning that their value and sense of self become tied to their career, making it extremely difficult to implement boundaries at work. However, delineating between personal values and work values allows you to establish boundaries that protect your well-being, uphold your principles, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Personal values are the fundamental beliefs and principles that guide an individual’s behavior and decision-making in all aspects of life. These values are deeply ingrained and reflect what is most important to you as an individual, and identifying and clarifying your personal values provides a sense of purpose and direction, helping you make choices that align with your authentic self and bring meaning to your life. By recognizing your personal values, you gain insight into what brings you joy, fulfillment, and peace outside of work— which is crucial in self care

Work values, on the other hand, are the beliefs and principles that shape your attitudes and behaviors specifically within the context of your professional life. These values influence how you approach your work, interact with colleagues and clients, and navigate workplace dynamics, and clarifying your work values allows you to understand what you seek from your professional endeavors and how you wish to contribute to your organization’s mission and goals.

By prioritizing self-care informed by these values, you cultivate resilience, fulfillment, and balance in all aspects of your life. Ultimately, honoring your values empowers you to lead a purposeful and authentic life, both inside and outside of the workplace.

Emma Karin’s Value’s in Action Worksheet^[6]

The full text from the worksheet is quoted below. However, I do urge you to download and print the worksheet when you have time to fill it out.

Our values and beliefs grow and expand throughout our lives, shaped by our experiences, education, and relationships but we rarely take the time to codify or purposefully explore them. Our internal, personal beliefs and values express themselves in our attitudes and actions. This can be a great and positive thing that allows our actions to be infused with our deepest heartfelt emotions. Or, it can cause rifts and poor outcomes when we act against our values. For these reasons, it’s incredibly useful to spend some time reflecting on, evaluating, and defining our values and beliefs.

Before we can make changes to our lives, workplaces, or community, we need to look inside, center, and explore ourselves. What’s inside ourselves is what we bring with us everywhere and affects the way we engage with the world around us.

The following is an exercise I created based on my own personal practices and years of doing self-help evaluations and worksheets. I have used the best bits of them all to create this exercise. It is highly recommended that you print out this worksheet to complete it and carefully read the introduction before proceeding.

Defining our personal values:

Make intentional time and space to complete this worksheet. Set yourself up in a quiet space and make yourself as comfortable as you can. This might mean changing your clothes, opening a window to get a cool breeze, lighting a candle, turning on some music, or making a favorite snack. Take some deep breaths, straighten your back and shake your shoulders to release tension. Without too much thought, begin circling or underlining the words on the accompanying page that you feel best represent your values.

Once you’ve circled all that apply, group all similar values together from the list you created. Group them in a way that makes sense to you. It is best to keep to five groupings or less. If you have more than five, drop the least important grouping(s). This is not to diminish those other values, it is to find a tighter focus. If you feel that you can’t whittle it down to five, that is fine. When finished, rewrite your groupings with the words in an order that makes sense to you.

Choose one word within each grouping that represents the label for the entire group and circle it. Don’t over think your labels. There are no right or wrong answers. You are choosing what is right for you. Next, take the five words you circled and write them out one after another with some space in between. Add a verb to each value so you can see what it looks like as an actionable core value. These phrases are your core values in action. For example, “Seek truth” or “Act with kindness”. Write out an example or definition of what that will look like for you.

Finally, rewrite your core values in action and post the list somewhere where it is available as an easy reference when you are faced with decisions or challenges. You can simply write them on a post-it or go all out and make a sign with markers and glitter – whatever speaks to your heart.

Work values:

Now that you’ve had a chance to find your personal values, take time to consider how to engage them at work and what other values you want to have at work. Take a look at the Core Values of Librarianship from ALA or other professional organizations your work is aligned with. Reflect on where your personal values overlap, align, or fall short. What core value(s) do you think is(are) missing from the professional list that you would add? What would they look like in action?

Create a venn diagram or use the one on the worksheet to map your personal values and work values on either side of the circles. For the work values you can pull from the professional values of your field or redo the previous exercise but circling words that specifically reflect your work values. In the middle write the words that overlap/align, how your personal values play out at work, and how your work values are shaped by your personal ones. It is unlikely you can draw a circle big enough to contain these thoughts (I know I couldn’t) so you can draw the diagram at the top and write these values and thoughts below but use arrows to connect the thoughts back to the circle for a clearer visual representation.

Reflection Questions:

1. 1. Do you feel these values guide your words and actions, and if so how?
   2. How do you feel when you make choices in line with your identified values versus times when you don’t?
   3. What changes can you make in your life so that your choices and actions are more consistently in line with your values?
   4. Can you identify any potential conflict within your values (e.g., how a value of responsiveness might rub up against a value of thoughtfulness)? How do you reconcile these conflicts or choose which value to prioritize?
   5. What might you start to do differently as a result of this experience, to bring your day-to-day activities into alignment with your core values?
   6. Consider how you define the words you chose. Does your community define them differently?

Consider repeating this activity once a year, alone or with groups, to see how your values change or are redefined.

Now that you have clearly defined your personal and work values, keep them in mind as we discuss establishing boundaries in the workplace and crafting effective personal self-care strategies. Also, consider revisiting this worksheet in a year or two, recognizing that your personal and work values are likely to evolve as you progress and acquire new insights through ongoing growth and learning.

Community care and strategic partnerships

Literature has shown that libraries can act as hubs for social services and as partners for public health.^{[7][8][9][10][11][12][13]} “Public libraries: A community-level resource to advance population health” employs a modified social determinants framework to classify the existing health-related initiatives undertaken by public libraries in the United States and to explore their potential as ‘meso-level’ community assets for enhancing population health. Meso-level factors function at an intermediary level between individual and structural influences, and libraries fit into this model as a modifiable community-level resource that could promote health.

Public libraries have even assisted patrons with healthcare access, offering services like direct healthcare provision, health information dissemination, and linkage to resources. Through partnerships with various organizations and governments, libraries extend their reach in public health promotion, exemplified by initiatives like HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns in San Diego.^[14] Some libraries even employ medical professionals to offer basic healthcare services, as seen in Pima County Public Library’s collaboration with the local health department.^[15] Studies underscore patrons’ reliance on libraries for health information, especially in rural and internet-deficient communities. Librarians serve as crucial navigators, curating authoritative health resources and assisting with tasks like health insurance enrollment.^[16] Additionally, libraries cater to children’s health needs, as demonstrated by Shreveport libraries’ programs focusing on general wellness, germ prevention, nutrition, and exercise for low-income families.^[17] This approach to library services embodies a deeply trauma-informed perspective, acknowledging the multifaceted needs of patrons and affirming their complete humanity.

This same holistic view of services can be taken in academic libraries. Students encounter the same challenges as the general public— including housing instability,^[18] substance abuse issues^[19], mental health concerns^[20], general health problems,^[21] and difficulties obtaining disability accommodations^[22]. While many students can face anxiety going to the library, the library is still viewed as a safe and trustworthy space.^[23] Libraries serve as invaluable hubs for information access, with library staff often adept at navigating complex search processes. By extending services to include assistance with locating therapists, navigating health insurance options, and more, libraries further enrich their role in supporting student success and holistic wellness. Through strategic partnerships with local and university resources such as counseling centers, disability support services, housing assistance programs, and food pantries, academic libraries can offer students holistic support, fostering both academic success and overall well-being.^{[24][25][26][27][28]}

What impact can this work have on us?

Secondary or vicarious trauma

Secondary or vicarious trauma refers to the emotional and psychological impact that individuals may experience as a result of being exposed to the trauma of others. While primary trauma involves direct exposure to a traumatic event, secondary trauma occurs when individuals witness or hear about the trauma experienced by others, such as clients, patients, patrons, or loved ones.^[29] Those who are regularly exposed to stories of trauma, such as mental health professionals, first responders, social workers, and librarians, are particularly susceptible to secondary trauma. This exposure can lead to a range of symptoms similar to those of primary trauma, including emotional distress, intrusive thoughts, heightened arousal, and avoidance behaviors.^[30]

The effects of secondary trauma can be profound and may impact various aspects of an individual’s life, including their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Over time, repeated exposure to the trauma of others can erode one’s sense of safety, resilience, and ability to cope effectively. It’s essential for individuals who work in fields where secondary trauma is prevalent to recognize the signs and symptoms and prioritize self-care and support.^[31][32]

Compassion fatigue

Compassion fatigue, also known as empathic strain or secondary traumatic stress, is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion resulting from caring for others who are experiencing suffering or trauma. Compassion fatigue typically develops gradually over time as a result of repeated exposure to the emotional and psychological struggles of others. This exposure can lead to feelings of overwhelm, burnout, and a diminished capacity to empathize or connect with others. Symptoms of compassion fatigue may include irritability, cynicism, feelings of hopelessness, physical fatigue, and a sense of emotional numbness. Factors that contribute to compassion fatigue include high caseloads, exposure to traumatic stories, lack of support or resources, and a tendency to prioritize the needs of others over one’s own well-being. Additionally, individuals who have a strong sense of empathy and compassion may be more susceptible to experiencing compassion fatigue.^[33][34]

Burnout

Burnout is a state of chronic stress characterized by physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It often occurs in individuals who are overwhelmed by prolonged stress, particularly in demanding, draining, or high-pressure environments. Burnout can affect anyone, and it can have profound effects on both personal well-being and job performance.^[35]

The symptoms of burnout typically develop gradually over time and may include feelings of fatigue, irritability, cynicism, and a sense of detachment from work or other activities. Individuals experiencing burnout may also exhibit physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, and digestive issues. As burnout progresses, it can impair concentration, decision-making abilities, and overall job performance, leading to decreased productivity and satisfaction. Several factors contribute to burnout, including excessive workload, lack of control or autonomy, inadequate support or resources, and a mismatch between individual values and organizational expectations. Additionally, perfectionism, self-imposed pressure to succeed, and a tendency to neglect self-care can increase the risk of burnout.^[36][37]

Self- care and wellness strategies

“Creating capacity for self-care is a responsibility for librarians working in academic contexts” because it ensures not only their own well-being but also their ability to effectively support the diverse needs of students and faculty, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient academic community.^[38] Loyer also states that “the act of self- care, attending to oneself, knowing when to take a break, to make sense of the research’s effect on us — is a crucial information literacy skill.” Self-care literacy equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to identify their own needs, seek out appropriate resources and support, and advocate for themselves effectively within healthcare and wellness systems. In essence, self-care literacy enhances individuals’ ability to access, evaluate, and apply information in ways that promote their overall health and wellness. Additionally, library staff “should see building kinship and the resulting responsibility to create capacity for self-care during research as a fundamental component of Indigenous information literacy that combats the historical and ongoing violence experienced by Indigenous researchers in universities.” Building kinship, or fostering connections and supportive relationships with others, is related to self-care because it provides a vital source of emotional support, validation, and belonging. Human beings are inherently social creatures, and having strong social connections is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in meaningful relationships with family, friends, colleagues, or community members allows individuals to share their experiences, express their feelings, and receive empathy and understanding in return. These interactions not only help to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation but also contribute to a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Moreover, building kinship networks provides opportunities for collaboration, mutual support, and collective problem-solving, which can help individuals navigate life’s challenges more effectively. Ultimately, investing in relationships and building kinship is a form of self-care because it nurtures the human need for connection and fosters a supportive environment that promotes holistic well-being.

Plan for self care

Creating a self-care plan is a personal endeavor; however, library administration can play a vital role in promoting these practices. Administrators should raise awareness about self-care and its significance within the organization by bringing in external experts to address the library staff is another strategy to foster a culture that acknowledges and prioritizes self-care, conducting workshops or professional development sessions to assist employees in crafting self-care plans underscores the library’s dedication to supporting the well-being of its staff, and integrating opportunities for self-care into the workday and providing dedicated spaces further empowers employees to prioritize their own wellness.^[39]

Preventing and addressing burnout and managing compassion fatigue require individuals to prioritize self-care and establish healthy boundaries. This involves setting realistic work goals, practicing stress management techniques, seeking social support, and engaging in enjoyable activities outside of work. Employers and organizations can also play a role by promoting a positive work culture, providing professional development opportunities, and offering resources for stress management and wellness. By addressing the root causes of burnout and compassion fatigue and creating supportive environments, individuals and organizations can reduce the risk and mitigate the effects, fostering greater resilience and well-being. Recognizing the signs and symptoms, taking proactive steps, and building resilience are essential strategies for managing these challenges and promoting overall health and vitality.

There is no one size fits all for self- care. You need to figure out what works for you and do it. However, there are some things that are universal:^[40][41]

• Take breaks
• Use your vacation / sick days
• Seek help
• Set work boundaries

Self care in a service oriented profession

In the chapter, “Taking Care of Yourself When Your Job is Taking Care of Others: Self- Care in a Service- Oriented Profession,^[42] Justin de la Cruz outlines the following strategies for taking care of yourself as a library worker.

Defining and enforcing boundaries

Boundaries are essential for self-care, yet acknowledging them can be challenging. While some individuals have clear boundaries established from a young age, others may struggle to define and enforce them. Initially, the concept of setting boundaries may seem negative or selfish, hindering connections with others. However, recognizing and enforcing boundaries can actually enhance relationships and promote well-being. Therapy and self-help guides are valuable resources for learning about boundaries, with practical advice applicable to both personal and professional contexts. Implementing boundaries, such as taking regular breaks, can lead to positive outcomes, reducing stress and fostering patience and kindness towards others.

Establishing boundaries, particularly regarding time, is crucial for maintaining mental and physical well-being in the workplace. Cultural expectations of productivity often make it challenging to say no to additional tasks or to negotiate workload adjustments. For instance, despite feeling overwhelmed, individuals may hesitate to decline requests due to fear of appearing uncooperative or jeopardizing job security. However, learning to tactfully disengage from non-essential tasks is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining overall health. Personal experiences highlight the importance of advocating for oneself and pushing back against unrealistic workloads, even in the face of institutional pressures. Additionally, it’s essential to acknowledge the role of privilege, as societal biases may affect how boundaries are perceived and respected, with men often benefiting from entrenched workplace sexism. Recognizing and addressing these dynamics is crucial for creating more equitable and supportive work environments for all employees.

Developing effective time management strategies involves not only scheduling work tasks but also considering personal needs and interests. This includes prioritizing activities that contribute to overall well-being, such as adequate rest, exercise, and leisure time. Integrating routines for household chores and self-care into both work and personal calendars helps maintain balance and prevent burnout. Setting boundaries around meeting attendance and using scheduling apps can also streamline workflow and preserve mental space. Recognizing individual capacity and values is essential for determining which commitments to prioritize and which to delegate or decline. By viewing work time as part of a broader life context and managing it accordingly, individuals can enhance their overall quality of life and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Pursuing personal growth alongside professional development

The journey of professional and personal growth in librarianship involves recognizing the importance of work-life balance and continuous learning. Mentors play a crucial role in guiding individuals to advocate for themselves, establish boundaries, and prioritize self-care. Personal development entails navigating challenges such as managing workload, setting realistic expectations, and learning from mistakes. Discovering one’s niche in library work involves exploring interests and incorporating them into professional responsibilities, supported by introspection and external resources like therapy and peer discussions. Embracing opportunities for professional development requires overcoming hesitancy and recognizing that rejections are part of the process, with each experience contributing to growth and resilience.

Aligning actions with goals

Reflecting on work in the context of broader life goals has been crucial in navigating mid-career librarianship. This involves balancing professional aspirations with personal values and interests, considering the impact of additional responsibilities on work-life balance. Aligning work activities with overarching goals, such as connecting people with information while maintaining a life outside of work, helps prioritize activities and avoid overcommitment. Recognizing areas of control within work situations and setting boundaries accordingly fosters a sense of agency and reduces stress. Transitioning from a mindset of pursuing milestones to focusing on personal enrichment and fulfillment has allowed for a more purposeful and fulfilling approach to work.

Actionable and accessible self care skills

In Karina Hagelin’s talk for Network of the National Library of Medicine, “Trauma-Informed Librarianship: Building Communities of Care”^[43] they discuss ten concrete self care practices that library staff can implement.

1. Create a self-care kit consisting of items that support mental health and well-being, such as a favorite book, journal, stress ball, or snacks.
2. Practice grounding techniques to connect with the present moment and alleviate stress, such as taking a mental inventory of surroundings or splashing cold water on your face.
3. Utilize journaling as a powerful tool for problem-solving and self-expression by incorporating it into your daily routine.
4. Practice positive self-talk to improve self-esteem and reduce stress by reframing negative thoughts and writing down affirmations and positive messages.
5. Seek connection with others to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness by reaching out to friends, family, or community members for support.
6. Engage in creative activities like crafting, coloring, or playing an instrument to express yourself and reduce stress.
7. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness meditation to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress.
8. Set healthy boundaries to preserve emotional energy and allow space for growth and vulnerability.
9. Seek professional support when needed through therapy or counseling, as asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Conclusion

Commitment to community and self-care stands as a foundational principle of trauma-informed librarianship, embodying the ethos of care and compassion essential for supporting survivors and fostering a culture of healing within library spaces. By prioritizing community care, librarians acknowledge the interconnectedness of individuals and their shared experiences, offering support, resources, and a safe haven for all. Simultaneously, investing in self-care practices ensures librarians can sustain their commitment to serving their communities with empathy and resilience. Recognizing the vital role librarians play in promoting well-being, it is imperative to safeguard against burnout through intentional self-care routines and strategic partnerships that distribute responsibilities and resources effectively. Ultimately, by nurturing both community and self, librarians uphold the principles of trauma-informed care, creating spaces of empowerment, safety, and trust where healing and growth can flourish.