Core e-forum: “we’ve GOT to be sillier”: approachability in academic libraries

We as a profession have worked hard to make libraries places “for all,” but our roles are inherently designed to filter information in ways that can intimidate patrons. The higher education ecosystem complicates librarians’ roles further, as we can be isolated from both students and other staff and faculty, while also trying to serve their needs. Focusing on increased approachability efforts, even in small steps, can combat the overarching pressures of higher education and increase student success.

This e-forum will introduce participants to the theory behind approachability efforts in our own librarianship practices and give them opportunities to practice applying these concepts to real-world-inspired scenarios, so that they feel empowered to advocate for applying approachability concepts in their own practice. If your students’ eyes glaze over when you teach, if no one is coming to your programs, if your professional identity is a performance that you are no longer enjoying…we’ve been there! Join us for an e-forum that will help you make your librarianship fun, again or for the first time, and help you feel less alone 🤩 Sign up to the list-serv.