Have you been to the library lately? These days, you sometimes hear people saying that libraries are no longer relevant. Folks who make this argument generally point to the internet as a replacement for the library—suggesting that everything that a library has to offer is available online.
We would suggest that this is a shortsighted—and inaccurate—way to look at libraries. In fact, we believe your local library can be an excellent resource for those looking to support their mental health.
Let’s take a look at what your library might offer that can give a boost to your mental well-being.
Browse the Books on the Shelves
Libraries, of course, are best known for having books on the shelves. And those books offer plenty of options for supporting your mental health.
In the nonfiction section, for example, you can find books that offer insight and instruction related to mindfulness. You can find memoirs by individuals who have struggled with their own mental health but found ways to make meaningful and lasting improvements. You can even dive into scientific explorations of mental health disorders, various kinds of therapy, and more.
You might also find books in the nonfiction section that can help you get more enjoyment out of a hobby. Improve your chess game. Learn to knit or crochet. Find sheet music you can play on your instrument of choice. Whatever your hobby is, you can likely find information about it at your library. An engaging hobby supports good mental health.
Over in the fiction section, you might find inspiring stories of characters overcoming mental health challenges. Equally importantly, you can find books you simply enjoy. Whether you like general fiction, mysteries, thrillers, sci-fi, romance, westerns, or what have you, reading can be a wonderful way to relax. Relaxing is an important activity—one far too many of us fail to engage in. Enjoying a good book is a great way to reduce stress and bolster your mental health.
Take a Look Beyond the Books
Plenty of libraries offer a whole range of things other than books to check out. Most have music, movies, television shows, documentaries, and more on offer. However, some libraries go well beyond various kinds of media.
Some libraries, for example, check out various hand tools you might need for a project around the house or in your garden. Others might offer cake pans or other cooking and baking equipment (and, of course, there are likely to be plenty of cookbooks on the shelves to inspire you). There might be a collection of board games or video games that can be checked out.
Find Community at the Library
These days, many libraries have moved well away from the stereotypical shushing many associate with librarians. Instead, these libraries have become places where people can come together for any number of reasons.
For example, many libraries have meeting rooms where folks can, gather to play a game, work on a project, or simply have a conversation. Your library may offer lectures, readings, or classes that provide an opportunity for you to meet others with similar interests while learning something new. There may be a reading group—or a writing group—you could join. Many libraries now have cafes or coffee shops, which can provide a great space for getting together with friends.
Building strong relationships is a wonderful way to support your mental health, and your library can be a perfect place to do just that.
Volunteer at the Library
As nonprofit organizations working to serve the community in a variety of ways, libraries often rely on volunteers. They might need folks to reshelve books. They could need folks to lead story time for children. They might need someone to sit at an information desk to help patrons find what they are looking for.
Volunteering for a cause that is important to you can give you a sense of purpose that firms up the foundations of your mental health. You can help your local library serve the whole community by volunteering your time and effort to its important work.
Check Out the Ways Peak View Can Help
The team at Peak View Behavioral Health—located in Colorado Springs, Colorado—knows that each individual we serve has a unique story and unique needs. That is why we are committed to developing a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your specific situation.
A mental health disorder can upend your quality of life. At Peak View Behavioral Health, we are dedicated to helping you renew a sense of balance and embrace a spirit of hope. We offer help and help for adolescents, adults, and families. We can help you make and maintain meaningful improvements to your mental health.
