Empathetic Public Libraries: Let’s Do It! An OLA Think-Tank Event

(Rescheduled from December 2022; new date TBD)
Nancy Goebel, Head, Faculty Engagement, Augustana Campus Library, University of Alberta

Public libraries are positioned well to significantly impact users in so many ways! One way that we can collectively do this is by considering how empathy can be demonstrated in all that we do. In this presentation, you will learn about areas of library work where empathy can make a difference!  Research findings will be shared as the kickoff to thinking about intentionally bringing empathy into public libraries.

About the speaker: Nancy Goebel (she/hers) is Head, Faculty Engagement of the Augustana Campus Library of the University of Alberta (Camrose, Alberta). 

The Augustana Human Library created the foundation for Nancy’s interest in what libraries can do to foster the development of empathy in library staff and students. Following a year’s research leave, she has gained many insights into this area. In a world with much strife, empathy is crucial.