ArLA 2024 Annual Conference

Bibliotherapy involves using books in a structured reading program to address life challenges and mental health, guided by a facilitator to help readers connect with characters, experience catharsis, and gain insights. While typically used in clinical settings, it can also be applied in libraries and schools for non-clinical populations. Libraries are ideal for offering mental health support for patrons with everyday stressors.

The session will cover the applications of bibliotherapy, its impact on different age groups, and how librarians can facilitate mental health improvement using bibliotherapeutic principles. Librarians will learn about suitable books for various stressors, enhancing patron mental health with their expertise, and recognizing when to refer patrons to professional mental health providers.