2026 PASCAL Member Conference

Two academic librarians share their experiences implementing a holistic approach to academic librarianship on their small, rural college campus. Inspired by "whole person" librarianship and public librarians, we adapted user services, spaces, and resources in our library. This approach centers our users' needs as developing scholars AND human beings while emphasizing staff well-being. Acknowledging limitations and nurturing healthy collaborative networks (on and off campus) are critical to this work. We borrow traits of public and K12 libraries to plan services, spaces, and resources that address students' basic needs before and during traditional outreach, instruction, and research services. We aim to nurture a sense of "homeness" and belonging in the library to encourage student self-determination and the creation of organic social networks. Presenters will share our philosophy, relevant research, and how we implement this approach in our own niche space. We will share tips and lessons learned through this process.