Ergonomics in CT Public Libraries

THIS SESSION WILL BE PRESENTED IN A VIRTUAL FORMAT TO IN-PERSON ATTENDEES.

Library staff members and patrons alike depend on technology to be efficient in our modern world, yet we frequently hear about users suffering from back, neck, and/or shoulder conditions, in addition to those who report pain in their hands, arms, and fingers (i.e. musculoskeletal disorders, or MSDs). It is unclear how many users are aware of how to set up a workstation that promotes good health and posture, which is especially important in public libraries because they offer all community members free access to their resources.My thesis research surveyed multiple Connecticut (CT) public libraries and collected data on their ergonomic setups. My results found that public libraries take accessibility seriously and that librarians have experienced complaints about MSD pain from patrons, but some libraries are more equipped than others to meet patrons’ and staff members’ ergonomic needs. Public libraries also face a number of barriers preventing them from establishing more ergonomic resources at their facilities. Librarian participants expressed interest in overcoming these barriers and in providing more support to staff members and patrons alike. It is my hope that my research could bring some attention to this issue and help current librarians assess their libraries' accessibility so they are approachable and comfortable for as many users as possible.