The Nurturing Librarian

In this episode of the Nurturing Librarian podcast, Nicole introduces the concept of a 'time audit' to help listeners find time for reading. By analyzing daily routines, she suggests identifying overlooked opportunities, such as commutes or waiting periods, that can be transformed into valuable reading time. Nicole argues that reading should be prioritized like other self-care activities, proposing a shift from mindless phone scrolling to more meaningful engagement with books. She offers practical tips tailored to individual preferences, highlighting audiobooks as a versatile solution for busy schedules. After all, listening to books is reading, too. The show finishes with book news and recs including the National Book Awards and an overlooked gem from last year, Curious Tides.National Book AwardsCurious Tides****Looking for more book recs? Check us out on goodreadsMusic: "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

The Nurturing Librarian podcast kicks off with an exploration of reading as a vital self-care practice. Host Nicole highlights how societal perceptions often undervalue reading, treating it as a hobby for those with ample leisure time. However, scientific studies show that reading can significantly reduce stress in mere minutes and foster community connections by enhancing empathy. Nicole argues that reading should be prioritized alongside activities like exercise and sleep, offering both emotional fulfillment and tangible health benefits. This episode aims to inspire listeners to see reading as essential to their well-being and encourages integrating it into daily routines. Nicole finishes the episode with book news and book recs for you.****Resources for Reading BenefitsUniversity Of Sussex Reading Reduces Stress****Book News and RecsNew Abby Jiminez BookLaura Dave BooksComing 2025 Our Infinite Fates****Looking for more book recs? Check us out on goodreadsMusic: "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

In the trailer of The Nurturing Librarian, Nicole, a former librarian and health coach, discusses why reading should be considered an integral part of self-care. She challenges the notion that making time for reading is a luxury or a lazy activity. Instead, Nicole encourages listeners to see reading as essential for reducing stress, increasing empathy, enhancing communication skills, and providing a sense of belonging. By shifting the mindset from reading as a guilty pleasure to a self-care necessity, she urges everyone to prioritize reading as a way to nurture their overall well-being.****Looking for book recs? Check us out on goodreads.Music: "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License