According to a June article in American Libraries, new approaches to maximizing mental health are being adopted by libraries. The Oak Park Public Library in Illinois has put into practice wellness programs that teach employees new skills, such as a rooftop beekeeping training program. Other initiatives include flexible start times and remote work. Therapy dogs visit four times a year, and employees are given a “lifestyle spending account” which includes up to $150 of well-being expense refunds, such as gym memberships and museum passes. With a staff of approximately 130 employees, surveys indicate that level of job satisfaction has trended upward, with turnover decreasing.
