Lilia,

I really like this idea and think it would serve this library very well! As a first gen student myself, when I was getting my bachelors degree at Ole Miss, I had an optional class that helped me explore the library in more detail and it really helped me in school. It helped me meet the librarians, learn where to go for what services, and what all was included in my student experience. After doing this immersive class, I used the library all the time – and now I even work there!

@catladylilia I LOVE this! I use virtual study YouTube sessions all the time, and I would love to get something like this started at the college library where I work. It would even help *me*! ; ) Also, this presentation is gorgeous.

Lilia,

Incorporating hygge and comfort in libraries is SO important. Taking breaks is a must sometimes, for us to recharge and be at our best again. I noticed a hygge moment at the academic library I work at today. I was taking a break and realized they had free tea and puppies to hug out front. It is around midterm time for the students and all of their assignments are due, so this was such a great way to help everyone take a break, smile, and relax.

Hi Lilia,
I love the hygge philosophy and have been actively trying to incorporate that sense of peace and coziness into my day-to-day life, especially after work and school. Libraries are a place for people, not books, which is such an important concept to understand and by creating that cozy space, users feel welcome, content, and relaxed. Thanks for your post!

Hi Lilia,

Thank you for sharing and highlighting this. Life gets so hectic at times and it’s important to remind ourselves to slow down, and libraries providing a space for it is just so cool!

Hi Lilia, thanks for sharing your thoughts on hygge! Similar to Millicent, my library is hosting a Therapy Pets event today too. Our students love it!

@catladylilia 12 hours of the fireplace! So cool.

Thanks for this exploration of what libraries are doing with higgle. So many inspirations! I recently spoke to a smaller library here about their future renovation and they may use some of these concepts.

Lilia,

I actually have never had a TikTok before, but BookTok has made me interested and thank you for sharing that. I also love “Dear Stranger” library project and the idea behind it. Penpalling has always been a hobby of mine, and it’s a great way to share information and get to know others.

Hi Lilia,

TikTok is really blowing up. I have heard that kids are starting to use TikTok as search engines. But I do agree, libraries that use social media, and in my opinion, use social media correctly can really leverage their platform to create better engagement and interaction with their community. As great as physical books are, people have started to migrate to more technological ways of reading such as using e-readers. Being able to share on TikTok, specifically #BookTok that they can access #BookTok books on their own personal devices expands the usage of library materials.

Have you seen the TikTok’s where Gen Z employees write up the script? Check out @KCKPL video of Linda performing the script. I think it is hilarious. Thanks for sharing all of the other TikTok’s too – although the one I mentioned above is funny, yours are informative and useful. I think that by using TikTok, libraries are tapping in to yet another demographic.

Hi Lilia,

I loved this post. I grew up visiting Woodland on a regular basis because I have family nearby, but I had no idea they had such a vibrant and active TikTok account. I really enjoy seeing different libraries foray into the world of social media to reach library users, and the connection you made between Dr. Stephen’s quote about connecting “across virtual and physical planes” was great! Thanks for sharing.

@catladylilia The “Dear Stranger” program struck a chord. So interesting to have that sort of exchange. Thanks for all the cool TikTok examples too!

Hi Lilia,
I had never even thought to check out any library’s TikTok account, but the examples you shared were really interesting to see how it is being utilized. While I may not fall within the target audience for these TikToks, it’s encouraging to see that some public libraries are broadening their reach and skillset to connect with more patrons than they might have otherwise.

Also, thank you for sharing the “Dear Stranger” project, which is such a beautiful way to remind us that, even as technology advances, there’s something profoundly meaningful in human connection through more personal, tangible mediums like handwritten letters. To me, this beautiful example highlights the importance of people as the heart of the community, and how libraries can be the bridge that brings that humanity to the forefront.

@catladylilia So cool! You use the examples you shared to really demonstrate what is possible in the library and beyond.

Hi @catladylilia – I, too, have been feeling very nostalgic and grateful for the library I grew up with in my hometown. I love that you are moving into a more public-facing and engaging space with your advocacy work – you seem very grounded in your purpose from your personal experience. Central Valley communities like Hanford often get left out of statewide conversations about access to services and representation. I love your closer: “Libraries mean hope” – don’t we need all the hope we can get these days?
Beautiful post – thank you for sharing with us all.

Hi @catladylilia. I loved this- I was a child who had a special relationship with my libraries, too. And I’m super inspired by you pushing your boundaries to do this internship! I need to do more of this.

Hello @catladylilia ,

It’s so funny because most of us in this field are introverts, yet most of our positions require us to face and interact with the public regularly. But like you, I do it because of how important libraries and librarians have been to me throughout my life. I was actually watching the Matilda movie the other day and I started to literally bawl. I saw how hard her life was at home and how she felt so alone, and when she discovered the magic of the library it completely changed her life and made her feel less alone. That is exactly how I felt when I first discovered the library. Libraries not only give us the chance to succeed academically, but also mentally by helping us escape and feel like a part of something bigger than ourselves.