In today’s rapidly changing world, the wellbeing of Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals is more critical than ever. This two-hour online event will focus on practical wellness strategies designed to help LIS professionals thrive in both their personal and professional lives. Participants will explore actionable techniques for practicing self-care, managing stress, and cultivating a balanced approach to work and life. Drawing from real-world examples, including the efforts of organizations like REFORMA Kindness Affinity Group and the SJSU iSchool, this session will highlight how wellness is integral not only to personal health but also to the wellbeing of professors, researchers, students and the overall LIS community.

Attendees will leave with tools to integrate self-care practices into their daily routines, create supportive work environments, and prioritize mental health, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness as educators, librarians, and community leaders. Whether you are navigating uncertain times, tackling work-related challenges, or seeking ways to support your colleagues and students, this session will provide valuable insights and a sense of connection within the LIS community.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategies for incorporating self-care into a busy work schedule
• Techniques for stress management and emotional resilience
• The impact of wellness practices on teaching, community engagement, and personal well-being
• Creating an inclusive, supportive work culture that fosters wellness for all

Join us as we explore how prioritizing wellness can transform our work and our communities, helping us build a more sustainable and compassionate future in the LIS field.

Agenda

10:00 – 10:10 a.m.
Welcome and Framing Remarks with Dr. Anthony Chow, Director of SJSU School of Information; Loida Garcia-Febo, Health and Wellness Ambassador at SJSU School of Information

10:10–10:40 a.m.
Opening Keynote: Compassionate LIS Work in Challenging Times with Loida Garcia-Febo

10:40–11:00 a.m.
Talk: No Time to Think?: Tools for Quieting the Mind Despite the (Information) Overload with Lisa Melendez, Reference and Instructional Services Librarian at Suffolk County Community College; Yoga Instructor, RYT-500

11:00–11:15 a.m.
Guided Mindfulness Practice: Supporting Emotional Safety in the Workplace with Billey Albina, Therapist and Former Academic Librarian

11:15–11:30 a.m.
LIS Peer Support and Wellness in Action with Jamia Williams, Assistant Librarian Expert in Health Subjects and Research, University of Utah

11:30–11:50 a.m.
Moderated Discussion with All Speakers

11:50 a.m. –12:00 p.m.
Closing Reflections and Key Takeaways with Loida Garcia-Febo