By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná
The theme for National Library Week 2022 is “Connect with your library!” And there are so many ways you can connect with your public library…
But if this pandemic has taught us nothing else, it has shown us that we need each other. So this week’s book suggestions focus on helping you connect with your community, your people, and you.
Books to help you build meaningful relationships
Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
Why you should try it? Brené Brown is known for inviting people to explore their vulnerabilities and this stylish book is no different.
Description: Brown takes us on a journey through 87 of the emotions and experiences that define what it means to be human. It shows us how accurately naming an experience doesn't give the experience more power—it gives us the power of understanding, meaning, and choice.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
Built to Belong by Natalie Franke
Why you should try it? People need each other, and sometimes, we get so wrapped up in the cycle of trying to keep up with everyone and everything on social media that we forget. But we don't have to, and this book can help with that.
Description: This fresh, inspiring call to community and connection from an entrepreneur and leader is perfect for anyone feeling alone and ready to set off on a journey to true belonging.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
The 5 Apology Languages by Gary D. Chapman
Why you should try it? A true apology is an action, and much like giving and receiving love, apologizing in a way that makes the affected party feel respected can go a long way toward rebuilding trust.
Description: Even in the best of relationships, we mess up. We say and do things we deeply regret later on. So we need to make things right. But just saying you're sorry isn't enough. That's only the first step on the road to restoration. Don't let hurts linger or wounds fester. Start on the path to healing today and discover how meaningful apologies can make your friendships, family, and marriage stronger than ever before.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
13 Things Strong Kids Do by Amy Morin
Why you should try it? Written for kids to help them channel big feelings and big thoughts—because emotionally intelligent and kind kids grow up to be emotionally intelligent and kind adults.
Description: This nonfiction middle grade book is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 5 to 8, including those living through the stresses of homeschooling, returning to the classroom, and navigating a changed and stressful world.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
Friendship in the Age of Loneliness by Smiley Poswolsky
Why you should try it? If you want to connect with your friends more deeply, or even just keep in touch more consistently, this is the book for you.
Description: Smiley offers practical habits and playful reminders on how to create meaningful connections, make new friends, and deepen relationships. Written in short, digestible, action-oriented sections, this book reminds us that nurturing old and new friendships is a ritual, a necessity, and one of the most worthwhile things we can do in life.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
I'll Be There (But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants) by Amy Weatherly
Why you should try it? Have you ever had the thought "making friends as an adult is hard"? Maybe it doesn't have to be so hard.
Description: Break free from unhealthy habits that block us from connection, find the confidence to live freely and without fear of rejection, and intentionally pursue friends in everyday life.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
Homecoming by Thema Bryant
Why you should try it? If you've been trying to connect with others, but keep finding yourself stumbling over...well, yourself, this book might help.
Description: A road map for dismantling the fear and shame that keep you from living a free and authentic life. In the aftermath of stress, disappointment, and trauma, people often fall into survival mode, even while a part of them longs for more. Dr. Thema provides the tools to meaningfully connect with your larger community, even if you face racism and sexism, heartbreak, grief, and trauma.
Find all available formats in the catalog »
About Dontaná
Dontaná is a Collection Management Librarian who was born with an unending reading list. She is almost always reading two books simultaneously and is easily distracted by cool covers.
