New Models Reflection Blog: Finding Hygge Through a Monthly Vision Board Community

One of the ideas that captured my attention most from the Module 8 readings on New Models was the Scandinavian concept of hygge. Hygge is often described as creating a sense of coziness, comfort, belonging, and community. Stephens (2019) shares a definition that particularly resonated with me, describing hygge as “the art of building sanctuary and community” and “a feeling of belonging to the moment and celebrating the everyday.” Reading this made me reflect on a monthly vision board program I previously developed and facilitated for adults at Toronto Public Library. Before this module, I viewed it simply as a creative wellness program. Now I realize it also embodies many of the principles of hygge by creating a welcoming space where people can connect, encourage one another, and feel a sense of belonging.

The program begins every January, when many people are setting New Year’s resolutions and personal goals. Participants meet during the first week of each month to create a vision board while enjoying tea, coffee, and snacks together. Holding the workshop during the first week of each month gives participants several weeks to work toward their goals before coming back to reflect, celebrate their progress, and set new intentions. We begin every workshop by sitting in a circle and sharing reflections on the previous month’s goals before creating a new vision board. At the end of the session, participants are invited to share what they created and what they hope to accomplish throughout the month. There are no expectations or judgments. Everyone is encouraged to express themselves freely, and for those who need inspiration, I provide optional monthly themes while still allowing each person to create something unique.

Looking back, I realize that while creating the vision boards was an important part of the program, the connections that formed through the shared experience were equally meaningful. As the months progressed, participants became more comfortable sharing their experiences and cheering one another on. One participant, a young mother, shared that knowing she would return each month motivated her to follow through on the goals she had set because she looked forward to updating the group on her progress. Many participants also commented that the simple act of cutting images from magazines, selecting meaningful words, and designing their boards felt therapeutic. Participants often remarked that time seemed to fly by because they became so immersed in creating their vision boards. To celebrate each participant’s journey, we keep their monthly vision boards in a portfolio binder so they can look back at the end of the year and reflect on their personal growth and accomplishments.

The module 8 lecture/readings reminded me to think about innovation beyond new technologies or digital services. My vision board program reminded me that innovation can also mean reimagining how libraries bring people together. A simple monthly gathering centered on creativity, conversation, and reflection can become a meaningful community experience. As I continue my MLIS journey, I hope to create library programs that not only provide information but also foster connection, belonging, and spaces where people feel supported. This reflection reminded me that sometimes the most innovative library services are the ones that help people feel seen, connected, and at home.

Figure 1 & 2: Monthly Vision Board Set-Up @ Cedarbrae Branch, Toronto Public Library

References

Stephens, M. (2019). Wholehearted librarianship: Finding hope, inspiration, and balance. ALA Editions.

Toronto Public Library. (n.d.). Monthly vision board [Event listing]. Bibliocommons. https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events/6949a99b6724c63d00e83226