Dear Friends of Lenox Library,

As we are all aware, the COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on our collective mental health.  The isolation, stress, and indeed trauma of this time period will have lasting impacts.  Conversely, the pandemic helped open up conversations around mental health and shed light on the importance of caring for our mental well-being; as they say, mental health is health and it matters.

It was with this in mind that I looked for ways that the Library could fulfill our mission to connect our community to resources and programs that would support our collective well-being.  Live Well Lenox: Making Mental Wellness a Priority is the result.

Join us at the Library on Saturday, October 8, 2022 for a day devoted to mental wellness in honor of World Mental Health Day (WMHD).

The 2022 WMHD theme ‘Make Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority’ provides the Lenox Library with an opportunity to fulfill our mission to enhance the quality of life in our community.  Join us for a day full of programs and resources that support mental health and well-being for all:

  • 10:30 a.m.: Mindful Moments Story Time – Join Youth Librarian Jenney for a special story time that incorporates moments of mindfulness. In addition to stories and songs, children will learn a few different breathing and yoga exercises. For preschool and elementary age children.
  • 11:30 a.m.: Yoga for Mental Wellness with Aimee Marshall of Berkshire Fitness and Wellness outside in Roche Reading Park (weather permitting). Please bring a yoga mat or beach or bath towel.
  • 2:30 p.m.: Crafting Calm for Tweens and Teens – We’ll make mindfulness jars, cover journals with washi tape, and concoct anti-stress scented putty. For students in grades 5 and above.
  • All day:
    • Receive a free self-care kit (while supplies last).
    • Explore our book displays and receive lists of resources that support your mental health and well-being.
    • Meet our friends from
      • NAMI Berkshire County, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with mental illness and their families through support, education, and advocacy. They will be on hand with additional resources as well as offer a mindfulness rock painting activity.
      • Berkshire Coalition for Suicide Prevention, a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to providing suicide prevention resources, loss and healing programs, professional trainings, advocacy efforts, and hope to our local community.

Together, we will all make a difference and promote mentally healthy communities and citizens!

I look forward to seeing you at the Library on October 8.

 

Sincerely,
Katie O’Neil
Library Director