Vol. 8 No. 1 (2023): Journal of New Librarianship
Peer Reviewed Articles

Book Clubs As Means of Reducing Library Anxiety

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  • Jacob Lackner,
  • Rebecca Luxmore,
  • Xavier Kneedler-Shorten
Jacob Lackner
University of Washington
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33011/newlibs/13/2

Published 2023-01-22

Keywords

  • Library anxiety,
  • book clubs,
  • student support

How to Cite

Lackner, J., Luxmore, R., & Kneedler-Shorten, X. (2023). Book Clubs As Means of Reducing Library Anxiety. Journal of New Librarianship, 8(1), 20–40. https://doi.org/10.33011/newlibs/13/2

Abstract

Utilization of library resources can make a major impact in academic success; however, library anxiety can inhibit students from being willing to access library 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.

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