5 Ways Libraries Are Improving Mental Health in the Community

Data presented by the National Institute of Mental Health shows that on average 1 in 5 adults in the US suffer from mental health and poor self-care and well-being. As awareness around mental health grows, public libraries are adapting their services to help everyone in the community and provide the best service possible to all patrons.  

 In this blog, we look at some of the unique ways library networks across the nation are helping to create a safe, secure environment for patrons across the United States.

The first thing to recognize is that libraries provide a safe space where people can find sanctuary from everyday life. For many, a library is a place for inspiration and escapism, it’s also one of the very few non-commercial spaces in society.

With the expectation of spending money removed, patrons are free to relax and use services at their own pace and leisure without the pressure of financial or time constraints.

Many libraries are equipping their librarians and staff members with professional development courses and workshops.

New York City’s libraries were one of the first in the library network to introduce mental health training and workshops by partnering with the Mayor’s Office of ThriveNYC to deliver the ‘Spaces to Thrive’ program. These workshops cover the social stigmas surrounding mental health and social-emotional learning.

According to the ALA, the public is becoming more reliant on libraries to improve their mental health. One event that is becoming increasingly popular amongst library networks is practising mindfulness. Arizona State University has started hosting ‘Mindfulness Sessions’ and offering free counselling to its students and the wider public. The library even has a website offering practical insight into the mental health system.

Social interaction is crucial for our mental and physical health, as stated in a New York Times article. Libraries have recognized how important social interaction is when maintaining general well-being, not just for children and adults, but also for the elderly.

Public libraries in Avon, Connecticut have been promoting social interaction by partnering with local senior centers to educate the older generation on best practices for mental health and the positive effects social interaction can have on their wellbeing.  

Academic libraries are also raising awareness and offering mental health support to students. North Carolina State University introduced meditation and prayer rooms to its university library. Designed to support and serve students of different religious faith, the meditation and prayer rooms include equipment such as prayer and meditation mats, cushions, and a sound machine to create a space for relaxation and reflection throughout the day.

Libraries have always been integral institutions within our communities; as society evolves, so do libraries and their services. Libraries are perhaps not recognised as such but are an important component of our national public health system.