Although chronologically, we are aware that the last two years have consisted of 24 months, physically and emotionally, we're pretty sure that they have actually lasted 24 years. The fatigue seems longer-lasting, the winter weather feels darker and colder, and the stress of the pandemic has permeated every aspect of many of our lives. In hard times and in stressful times, reading does not solve all of our concerns and worries, but it can help. Here are some of the ways we are using books to get through this tough period.
Listen, we hear you. Our minds and focus right now can be summed up like this:
When our attention spans are exactly the length of one tik-tok video, we use these tips to get back into reading.
“Reading has been an escape for me -- but I am choosing books that allow me to escape because that's what I need right now.”- Crystal, Library patron
Numerous studies have proven that the more time that we spend on social media, the more we tend to be anxious. We are too distracted by every notification on our cell phones, every text message vibration, or email alert. How many hours have you spent this week aimlessly surfing social media? We don’t want to incriminate ourselves but we're pretty sure our weekly screen time report could be included as evidence in a trial on why our brains can’t stay focused on one task. Use these tips to help curtail your scrolling time (except the Library’s social media- you should definitely be following us).
“Reading is a learning adventure and escape. When I discover a new author and I really like them I read more of their books and then I also want to find out more about that author” - Theresa, Librarian