Top 7 Reasons Libraries Are Good For Your Mental Health! [WRITING YOGA® PROMPT #2020]
Jul 08, 2024By some good fortune, I found myself working in a library. I didn't know librarians needed a degree in Library Science. I just thought anyone who liked to read could be a librarian and they can, but it is a bit more involved!
A compassionate reference librarian told me the deal. She was not condescending. I thanked her and years later when I got my MLS, I wondered if I would have been that kind to my younger self. I'd like to think I would be, but in any case, I'm glad to be surrounded by books in work and life.
As society gets busier and more stressful, the library becomes a sanctuary. If you are reading this, you probably agree. But why? Here is my list of reasons libraries are good for your mental health. If you have more to add, I would love to hear about it.
1. It's pretty much the only place you can go without a television blasting
Everywhere you go, there’s a screen demanding your attention. But when you step into a library, it’s just quiet. No news, no game shows, no loud commercials. Just a space to think, reflect, or let your mind wander freely. It’s like taking a deep breath you didn’t realize you needed. Here, you can finally hear your own thoughts.
2. You can find books about uplifting things to make like artwork, music and gardening
Libraries aren’t just about reading. They’re filled with ideas that spark creativity. Whether you’re curious about painting, music, gardening, or crafting, there’s a book that can guide you. Flipping through the pages of a DIY book is like getting a little burst of hope, nudging you to try something new. It shifts your focus from the noise of everyday stress to the joy of making something with your hands.
3. All the literature you could ever read in a lifetime is at your disposal free of charge
Novels, poems, essays, memoirs… you name it, it’s waiting for you! And you don’t need to spend a penny. There’s something magical about walking through the library, knowing you could dive into any story at any time. Libraries remind you that the best things in life, like knowledge and imagination, are for everyone, no matter who you are.
4. It is organized and neat (and being organized is very calming)
There’s something incredibly calming about how neat everything is in a library. Books are arranged by subject, author, or genre—each with its own place. You don’t have to fight through chaos to find what you need. When life feels messy, just standing in a library, where everything makes sense, can be grounding. It’s like the universe saying, “See? Not everything is out of control.”
5. You follow a protectable routine (check in a book, check out a book, repeat)
Libraries offer small routines that feel oddly satisfying. You bring back a book, browse for a new one, check it out, and repeat. These little rituals create a sense of stability in a fast-paced world. There’s a quiet joy in the familiarity of it all, like running into an old friend every time you step through the door.
6. The world's knowledge sits nicely on shelves without arguing
Books represent all kinds of viewpoints, but they don’t fight for your attention. They just sit there, waiting patiently for you to pick them up. In a library, ideas and opinions coexist without clashing. It’s a refreshing reminder that knowledge can be explored on your own terms, without the noise of debates and social media battles.
7. You can sit in a chair and read for as long as you want as time gently, soothingly evaporates
There’s no rush in a library. Time moves differently here: slow and gentle. You can sink into a chair, get lost in a book, and suddenly realize hours have passed. But instead of feeling guilty or behind, you feel restored. In a world that’s always go-go-go, being able to just be with a book is a rare, beautiful gift.
WRITING YOGA® PROMPT #2020: List Three Reasons Why You Love the Library & Write a Poem
Make a list of all the reasons you love your library. How does it feel to use the tables, books, and walk through stacks? What are the sounds and scents that contribute to the atmosphere? When you are done with your list, choose three and write a poem using all of your senses. Notice any themes or threads that weave through your words.
Remember to sit, write & move each day for a calm, creative & more compassionate life. If you want to learn more about Writing Yoga® Method, feel free to check out my course right here. This interactive course will help you jumpstart healthy and creative practices to: 1) Reduce stress 2) Write and 3) feel luminous.
Book a free consultation to learn more about workplace retreats and professional development.
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Copyright © 2024 Stefanie Maura, All rights reserved.
