iSchool Capstone

Book Clubs As Means of Reducing Library Anxiety

Project tags:

community engagement & outreach

equity & inclusion

information behavior & user research

Utilization of library resources is instrumental towards academic success; however, library anxiety can inhibit student’s ability to access library’s resources. The present study investigates how book clubs influence library anxiety. Five librarians were interviewed about their experiences with book clubs. Patterns emerged indicating book clubs offering holistic student support, focusing on building relationships, and addressing different levels of anxiety saw decreases in library anxiety. Suggestions for best practices in designing and running book clubs to decrease library anxiety are provided. Reduction in library anxiety helps increase a student’s ability to use library resources and can thereby increase their academic success.

Project participants:

Jacob Lackner

MLIS

Rebecca Luxmore

MLIS Online

Xavier Kneedler-Shorten

MLIS Online