Professional Development: Compassion Without Collapse: Boundary Setting for Library Staff Under Pressure from ARSL

This is Offered by The Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL). You do not have to be a member to sign up, sessions are free for members, $30 for nonmembers (some programs free for all, but not this one) ARSL also maintains a free public archive of some programs.

Compassion Without Collapse: Boundary Setting for Library Staff Under Pressure

When: Thursday, November 5 @ 11:00 am PT / 12:00 pm MT / 1:00 pm CT / 2:00 pm ET

Library staff are expected to provide exceptional service while navigating behavior that can be demanding, inappropriate, or emotionally charged. This interactive session introduces a trauma-informed approach to asserting compassionate boundaries — helping participants stay kind, clear, and courageous under pressure. Rooted in neuroscience and informed by real-world library scenarios, participants will explore how nervous system activation influences communication, why boundary testing occurs, and how to respond with grounded clarity rather than reactivity. This session empowers librarians to recognize early warning signs, and learn practical strategies for responding in ways that protect staff well-being while maintaining welcoming, inclusive spaces. Participants will:

·                 Understand the role of nervous system activation in difficult patron and colleague interactions

·                 Recognize early indicators that a boundary may be needed

·                 Practice mindset shifts that support confident, respectful limit-setting

·                 Identify strategies for upholding boundaries while maintaining welcoming library spaces

Presented by: Ariana Friedlander, MPA