Northern New York Library Network: Cultivating Holistic Student Support

The initiative is based on recent research showing that students require additional support for non-curricular activities to enhance their academic performance. With over 60% of college students meeting the criteria for at least one mental health disorder, a 50% increase since 2013, the need for mental health and wellness support is critical.

Planned Programs and Resources

The initiative includes various outreach programs and resources:

1. Tabling events at key campus locations to showcase planned programs and available resources.
2. Formal events for active learning opportunities and passive programs to encourage growth and connection.
3. Access to basic personal hygiene supplies and office supplies for study and class projects.
4. Circulation of personal DVD players for viewing course-required films, addressing limited access to streaming services.
5. Activity backpacks for children of non-traditional students, grouped by age range, to support parents using library resources and services.

Expected Impact

The initiative aims to:

1. Provide evidence of need and utilization for programs and resources.
2. Allow the College Libraries and collaborating departments to seek sustainable funding for continuation and growth.
3. Increase student retention and graduation rates.
4. Support the school's mission by providing an equitable foundation for students' basic needs.
5. Align with the Potsdam Pledge to promote physical and emotional wellness.

Benefits to the Campus Community

The project is expected to benefit not only students but the entire campus community by:

1. Alleviating stress on individual departments.
2. Ensuring increased utilization of services by their intended audience.
3. Reducing the need for drastic interventions.

By addressing students' holistic needs, this project aims to create a supportive environment that fosters academic success and overall well-being. This initiative recognizes the importance of non-academic factors in student performance and seeks to provide comprehensive support to enhance the college experience for all students.

Sources

Flannery, M. E. (2023, March 29). The Mental Health Crisis on College Campuses. www.nea.org; National Education Association.

https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/mental-health-crisis-college-campuses

The Borough of Manhattan Community College (2022). College Fluency Capacity Building: Empowering Librarians to Support Students Navigating College. www.imls.gov; Institute of Museum and Library Services. https://www.imls.gov/sites/default/files/project-proposals/RE-252364-OLS-22-preliminary-proposal.pdf