Battling burnout in an age of chaos: enhancing the wellbeing of public library staff
Abstract
Public library staff, particularly in the United States, face increasing workloads and expectations while grappling with little support for prioritizing their wellbeing. This article first defines burnout and its impact on public library staff, then introduces the PERMA theory of wellbeing via a trauma-informed approach. This theory aims to enhance key life dimensions through everyday practices. It examines evidence from other professions to show the value of implementing this approach to wellbeing. Finally, the paper explores the application of this model in public libraries, proposing a systematic implementation and envisioning a future where staff wellbeing is prioritized through a trauma-informed lens.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Library Science and Administration
Library Science and Information Literacy
Healthcare professionals’ stress and burnout
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Library Administration
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 66
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 49–61
- Publication date
- 2 January 2026
- Language
- EN