Adam Prudhomme
Editor
To say this year has been a tense one for a lot of people would be an understatement.
That’s why County of Lennox and Addington Libraries has put together an upcoming online event known as Managing Stress in Uncertain Times, which will be hosted on Zoom, Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Kate Wilson, programming and outreach coordinator with County of L&A Libraries put together the event after registered psychotherapist Angie Wellman approached her about offering the presentation.
The local library is always looking for new and interesting programs and this one seemed like a perfect fit given all the anxiety that can stem from uncertainty surrounding COVID-19.
“We haven’t done something directly related to stress with a professional from the community per say, but this is very timely,” said Wilson. “Angie Wellman, she had done this presentation at a couple different libraries, the Belleville Public Library and she actually came to us and said this might be a good idea.”
Wellman operates a private practice in Belleville, specializing in helping individuals with stress, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns and life transitions. The fact she’s based close to L&A County was a nice bonus, through given that it’s a Zoom broadcast that means she can speak to upwards of 100 people from just about anywhere. The audience for her talk can enjoy the presentation from the comfort of their home.
Managing Stress in Uncertain Times will also include advice for adults to use when talking with their children about current events.
“Everybody’s feeling the effects and there’s going to be tools that everybody can use,” said Wilson. “I think it’ll be good for a lot of people.”
The event is 100 per cent free, though those interested in watching must register ahead of time at picktime.com/LandALibraries. Once a time is selected, the library will email a link to the broadcast.
“Our branches are open at that time so if you have your own device and your internet isn’t the best, you could take part sitting in the library,” added Wilson.
The presentation is scheduled to last about an hour and will include questions from the online audience at the end.
Along with exploring new online workshops, L&A Libraries have been working to adapt their previous programs.
“We have been doing other programming in the library as well,” said Wilson. “We started up some of our programs, we have Storytime back on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. We have some tech talks on different topics that are being presented as well as our Book Clubs are back. Instead of having our regular craft program we have take and make crafts, a pre-packaged craft with everything and they take it and make it at home. We also have a STEM Quest, like an activity for kids to take home.”
More on their programs can be found at Lennox-Addington.on.ca/library-services/regular-programs.