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This episode centers around library worker experiences of burnout, and organizational and workplace factors that often contribute to that burnout. Beth and Jane interview consultant and researcher, Kaetrena Davis Kendrick, about her research on low morale experiences in libraries and discuss strategies staff and managers can use to increase the wellness of everyone working in the library.

Kaetrena's Website: https://renewalslis.com/about/

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Beth and Jane discuss violence and aggressive behavior happening in libraries and how these behaviors are impacting staff. They also interview Kristy Gardenour about safety and security in libraries. Kristy provides helpful information about security officers and their training, and makes recommendations for ways libraries utilizing security guards can improve their overall fit for the library environment. She also discusses additional strategies with Beth and Jane for increasing library safety.

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In this episode of Surviving the Stacks, Beth and Jane focus on the stress that occurs when libraries don’t have clear boundaries around their roles or clear expectations for staff. They also interview Noah Lenstra, who talks about how developing intentional collaborations and partnerships with other area organizations can help libraries expand their services and meet patron needs while also reducing pressure for staff to be all things to all people.

Dr. Lenstra also shares pointers for setting collaborations up for success and for libraries to advocate for their needs.

Key Resources

Dr. Noah Lenstra's Resource Toolkit:

https://letsmovelibraries.org/toolkit/

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Featuring stories and examples from across the globe, this podcast seeks to increase support to library workers and administrators experiencing challenges, bring awareness of the public to common library concerns, improve understanding about the reasons why libraries are seeing these challenges, and share innovative solutions for libraries to consider using in their own community.