How to create connections as an awkward, introverted new librarian

Creating connections is important in establishing a resilient career. This can, however, present a bit of a challenge if you’re an awkward, anxious and shy introvert like me. However, in my four years in the library and information profession I’ve learned it’s possible to create connections in a way that’s natural and authentic to my …

Savouring stillness and slowness

My sense of passing time is now sharper, courtesy of quarantined life. When I go for my walks at dusk, I want to drink every second down, paint every colour of the sunset with my hands and keep the cold air on my skin. It’s a weird feeling – wanting to slow time, to replay …

Searching for Sisu and improving wellbeing, the Finnish way

It may not be obvious from my name, but I am partly Nordic. I carry the rounded face and petite stature of the partial Finn I am. Sometimes I think about my maternal line and the land of a thousand lakes – a country I’ve never been to. A country renowned for so many good …

Hospitals, libraries, PTSD and the importance of being trauma-informed

In the last two months, I’ve been in hospital more times than I have in years and during my hospital stays I’ve been thinking a lot about health services, libraries and other services that are trauma-informed; and how important being trauma-informed as a professional and member of society truly is. ‘Trauma’ is defined as an …