Navigating Wellness at Work: Using Mindfulness to Combat Burnout in Librarians
MLA CE Credits: 2
(C Andresen)
(R. Lubker)
Instructor Names:
Christine Andresen, MLS, MSIT
Research and Education Informationist & Associate Professor
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Libraries
&
Irene “Rena” Machowa Lubker, PhD, MLS, MPH, RDN, AHIP
Research and Education Informationist & Professor
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Libraries
Instructor Bios:
Christine Andresen, MLS, MSIT is an Associate Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, where she works as a Research and Education Informationist. In this role she provides library and evidence-based practice instruction to support the development of information literate health professionals prepared to integrate research into the clinical decision-making process. As someone who has struggled with finding a work-life balance, Christine is an advocate for work-life harmony, a holistic approach where work coexists with multiple dimensions of wellness, and currently serves as the Well-being Team Lead for Academic Affairs Faculty and the College of Graduate Studies.
Irene “Rena” Machowa Lubker, PhD, MLS, MPH, RDN, AHIP is an adaptable global information professional with extensive library experience, specializing in leading collaborative initiatives, and implementing strategic solutions. She is also an educator and communicator fostering partnerships and delivering value in roles where organization, communication, and attention to detail are paramount. As a Research and Education Informationist & Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Libraries in Charleston, South Carolina, she works with Dental and Public Health students, faculty and staff, dietitians, and dietetic Interns. Currently Rena is a member of the Board of Directors for the Medical Library Association (MLA), member of MLA’s International Cooperation Caucus and the Allied Representative for MLA to the Association of Health Information and Libraries in Africa (AHILA). In addition to working with AHILA, Rena works collaboratively with Health Sciences Professionals globally, continuously finding new ways Health Sciences Professionals in the United States can continue to strengthen the ties we have with our counterparts in the world. In the past, Rena has held offices at MLA as chair for the Dental Caucus and chair for the MLA’s Librarians Without Borders. Her research interests are in Global Health, Health Disparities, Evidence-Based Practice, Health Literacy, Adult Learning and Curriculum-Based Library Instruction and Assessment. Additionally, Rena is a staunch advocate for work-life harmony and consistently endeavors to inspire both students and colleagues to implement practices conducive to achieving such equilibrium.
Full Course Description:
In today’s fast-paced health sciences environment, librarians are crucial in supporting teaching, research, and clinical care. Competing work demands can lead to stress, burnout, and decreased overall well-being. During this interactive session, “Navigating Wellness at Work: Using Mindfulness to Combat Burnout in Librarians”; MLA’s Be Well MLA Committee members offer practical strategies for addressing these challenges.
After first learning to identify burnout triggers, participants will explore the science of mindfulness and its potential to reduce stress and enhance resilience. Through guided mindfulness exercises, group discussions, and real-world applications, attendees will learn how to integrate mindfulness practices into their daily work routines to foster a balanced, healthier approach to managing stress. This course is designed for library professionals at all career stages who want to cultivate personal wellness, navigate professional uncertainty, and lead with calm, focus, and presence in an ever-changing landscape.
Learning outcomes:
At the close of this CE offering, participants will be able to:
● Define burnout and mindfulness in the context of workplace wellness.
● Recognize the symptoms and causes of burnout specific to library settings.
● Explain the benefits of mindfulness as a tool for stress management.
● Demonstrate how mindfulness techniques can be applied in their daily routines to manage moments of burnout.
● Develop strategies to enhance personal well-being and resilience in the workplace.
This session will be held at the in person conference. Check-in will be from 9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. on Friday, November 14th, with a brief welcome before the 2-hour session begins at 9:45 a.m.