NC LIVE 2024 Annual Conference

College students today balance an array of challenges, including coursework, relationships, adjustment to campus life, economic strain, social injustice, mass violence, and the continuous waves of COVID-19 that directly impact students each semester. According the the National Education Association, “Rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation on college campuses have never been higher.” Thus it is imperative for colleges and universities to enhance and elevate a culture of belonging and well-being throughout their campus communities. At NC State University we are focusing on a holistic approach to address students’ mental health needs. This presentation discusses the role that libraries can play in both being an anchor for, and enhancing, the well-being of students on college campuses by fostering connectedness, increasing resilience, and reducing anxiety.