Dealing with Library Anxiety

1. Test yourself :

  • Do you feel uncomfortable asking a member of staff for assistance?
  • Are you uncomfortable with the size of layout of the library?
  • Do you feel nervous if you can't find something in the library? 
  • Have you had a previous bad experience in a library? 

If your answer to any of these questions is "yes", then you may have library anxiety. Fortunately, there are ways to get around this.

 

2. Tips on how to deal with Library Anxiety

 

  • Recognize that what you're feeling is common and that you aren't alone:

Many people feel overwhelmed by libraries, often because they worry about being in unfamiliar places.

 

  • Ask a librarian for help:

You can send us an email (library@christs.cam.ac.uk ) or give us a call (01223 334905/ 01223 334950) to arrange an in-person individual meeting, phone or video call with a member of library staff. We can help you get accustomed to the library's space, procedures and resources.

We also welcome any non-medical workers or support workers to join in the meeting.

You might also find it useful to look at our Accessibility Information page https://tinyurl.com/accesschrists

 

  • Ask your personal tutor or fellow students for help:

If you are really struggling or feeling "paralyzed" when you try to do your library research, consider talking to your personal tutor about it. Some of your fellow students might also be able to help.

 

  • Get comfortable with the space:

When coming into the library, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the space. A library space is not just for studying and storing books, but can become a comfortable and safe space for you to relax and to study.

So--take a moment to pick the right space for you!

 

  • Look at our library space before coming to the library:

We have pictures of all the spaces in the library so you can easily familiarize yourself with the space before coming to the library.

We provide a number of additional services to help readers access our library resources. Some resources are available to all but others are only accessible once you are registered with the Disability ResourceCentre