Occupational Therapy at the Library
Date
2016-04-20
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Abstract
As a child, when I looked at a tree, I saw much more than a tree. I saw a playground, a fort, a mountain to climb, monkey bars, a great hide-and-seek spot, and a place to relax. Similarly, I now view the library through different eyes. It holds limitless potential if only we branch out and exercise a healthy blend of childlike vision and clinical reasoning.
This book was designed to tap into a resource communities already possess – the library – for a therapeutic purpose. Each library resource or activity can address a variety of performance components. It is all about viewing them through different eyes and tailoring it to your clients’ needs.
Description
Community based occupational therapy isn’t a new concept; it is currently being used in a variety of capacities. However, I see an opportunity for communities to expand its role to more effectively utilize the library setting. This would be a financially practical and cost-effective route for communities to take, as it is simply putting its own resources to work in a new fashion.
Occupational therapists should establish a collaborating partnership with local libraries. Here we can help to educate, advocate, lead, and serve our communities by promoting quality of life through utilization of library services.
It is my hope that these library intervention ideas will inspire you to look outside the box, and find creative ways to serve in your own communities.
Keywords
Occupational Therapy, community-based, Libraries, Library services, Occupational Therapy