The Kind Librarian: Cultivating a Culture of Kindness and Wellbeing in Libraries

by Helen Rimmer

The Kind Cultivating a Culture of Kindness and Wellbeing in Libraries is a pioneering guide that addresses the critical need to foster kindness and wellbeing within library workplaces and promoting a more supportive and understanding working environment. In it, the author expertly blends the principles of positive psychology with practical strategies, making a compelling case for the role of kindness in enhancing workplace culture and community engagement.

Through research, case studies, and actionable advice, The Kind Librarian offers solutions to everyday workplace challenges, emphasising empathy, support, and collaboration. With an innovative and accessible approach, it provides readers with a roadmap to transform their workplaces into spaces where kindness is the norm and wellbeing is prioritised. Coverage

practicalities of kindness in the workplace crafting a culture of kindness kind use of data for wellbeing This book explores the practical implementation of policies that support a kind and healthy work environment. Readers will learn how to create strategies that foster collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect among staff and patrons. It will prove an ideal reference for librarians and anyone interested in fostering a culture of kindness and well-being in professional settings.

Genres: Nonfiction, Librarianship, Professional Development, Adult

398 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 25, 2024

Reviews

[Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 stars for the title. But 3 for the book.
I read about 120 pages properly, and then for the rest I dipped in and out as to be honest, it was a bit dry and it got a bit too much. I *definitely* believe in being kind, and I think that many workplaces could benefit from everyone being a bit kinder. But there was an awful lot to this book, places where it felt like the same things were being said repeatedly, and on top of that there were reflective exercises to do at the end of each chapter. I hate reflective exercises. And there is absolutely NO WAY that the team I work in would do any kind of gratitude exercise at the start of each team meeting!
Some of it felt pretty much common sense. Some of it felt impossible (can you teach people emotional intelligence? I'm not so sure that you can).
I expect I might revisit some parts in the future - we do a lot of staff development at our place, so I can see myself returning to that chapter for instance.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valuable for professional development at all levels of library staff but especially management and directors. Addresses a variety of approaches to a wide range of scenarios in library work. Empowering and solution-oriented, this is a welcome addition to all professional development collections.

[ray]

and you know what while i’m logging books i read at work - i lowkey hated this!

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Might be useful if writing an essay on kindness models or looking for reflective exercises (maybe for professional development?)