I’ve been thinking about connections a lot lately, both in terms of connecting with myself, with books (like I talked about in my last post), and with others. I have been thinking about who I connect with, who I want to connect with, and how I build those connections.
This occurs both in and outside of my work here at the library.
Outside of work, I feel very connected to my friends, family, and groups to which I have decided to give some of my time.
Connection is also a big part of my job. I create connections between the library (or libraries) and community members, organizations, and authors to facilitate programs and events. This fuels JCLS’s mission to connect people with information, ideas, and each other.
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, so I’m reminded of how important connection is – even a brief connection. This is where I introduce the “eight-minute catch-up”.
If you’re not familiar with it, years ago, Jancee Dunn wrote a piece in the New York Times about being unable to connect with a close friend due to both of their demanding jobs. Dunn sent her friend a text proposing an 8-minute phone call. During that 8-minute call, they talked about their mothers’ health, made birthday plans, traded book recommendations, and even gossiped a little. They covered a lot of ground in those 8 minutes, but more importantly, they connected.
This concept has made a resurgence as author and inspirational speaker Simon Sinek talked about it on a recent podcast episode titled “A Bit of Optimism.” In this episode, he expanded on using the 8-minute catch-up as more than just a check-in with a friend, but also as an act of reaching out for support. He encourages using the phrase as a code, symbolizing a safe space to openly express vulnerability and seek comfort. At the end of the day, eight minutes of a friend’s time can make all the difference in the world.
Now, how can I apply this to library work?
Librarians and library professionals are not mental health professionals. If you’re struggling, I’ll leave some resources at the bottom of this post, or you can always reach out to our community resources team here.
However, librarians and library professionals love those moments when we briefly connect with our patrons. We love hearing about that book you just read or something cool you just learned. We love seeing your little ones with you during storytime or seeing that lovely thing you made during a knitting program.
We may not always have 8 minutes, but we can always give you a friendly smile, a hello, or a wave. We do sometimes like to get interrupted.
Of course, if you have time for longer connections, we have tons of programs happening every month—all of which are longer than 8 minutes and could be a great opportunity to connect with information, ideas, or each other.
After all, that’s our mission.
RESOURCES
A national suicide and crisis lifeline providing 24/7 confidential support via phone, text, or chat.
Rogue Community Health (RCH):
Offers a range of behavioral health services, including counseling, crisis intervention, and addiction recovery.
Jackson County Mental Health Crisis Services:
Provides walk-in crisis services at the Health & Human Services building in Medford.
Offers support and education for individuals and families affected by mental illness.