3 Ways Library Staff can set Boundaries
Does this sound familiar?
You want to be helpful and accommodating, but there are moments where patrons are overstepping, making you feel flustered, frustrated or stressed out.
You want to maintain professionalism while ensuring that patrons understand and respect that you can’t talk with them for 3 hours straight without getting any work done.
Boundaries are important to reducing stress, preventing burnout, improving interpersonal relationships and creating a balanced work experience.
You want to find a balance between being approachable and getting the rest of your work done, the one that doesn’t require patron interaction.
That’s where setting healthy boundaries comes in. Boundaries, in the context of mental health and well-being, refer to the limits and guidelines we set for ourselves in various aspects of our lives. These boundaries define our emotional, physical, and psychological space.
Today, I want to provide you with 3 ways you can set boundaries with patrons. In a way that doesn’t seem unprofessional or unreasonable.
Communicate Clearly: Once you've identified your boundaries, communicate them clearly and assertively. Use "I" statements to express your needs without blaming others. For example, "I need some uninterrupted time to complete this task" is more effective than "You're always interrupting me." Also, if a patron is engaging in behavior that crosses a line, don't hesitate to kindly inform them of the library's policies. Use friendly yet firm language to express your concerns and guide them back on track. Remember, being assertive doesn't mean being rude; it's about advocating for a positive library experience for everyone.
Learn to Say No: It can be challenging to say no, especially in a service-oriented profession. However, saying no when necessary is a crucial part of setting boundaries. Politely decline if a patron asks personal questions and you don’t feel comfortable responding. Practice saying “no, I can’t talk right now”, when a patron wants to sit and talk about their day with you. Unless they are in need of something that you can help them with. You can always listen for a little while to assess the conversation and kindly inform them that you have to get back to work.
Be Consistent: Consistency is key when setting boundaries. Enforce your boundaries consistently across different situations and with different people. This helps others understand that your boundaries are non-negotiable and reinforces respect for your limits. It is important that you are consistent with patrons when establishing boundaries.
Setting boundaries with patrons is all about maintaining a healthy balance between providing a service and professionalism.
