Library work relies on teamwork, communication, and adaptability, yet some teams may struggle with miscommunication, workplace stress, and interpersonal conflicts. Without emotional intelligence (EQ), collaboration suffers, morale declines, and staff engagement weakens—impacting both internal teamwork and service to patrons. When team members lack self-awareness, struggle to manage emotions, or misinterpret others’ intentions, workplace relationships become strained. Small misunderstandings escalate, stress increases, and trust erodes. Without strong emotional intelligence, library staff may struggle to navigate change, resolve conflicts, or support one another effectively, leading to a disconnected and less productive work environment.

This workshop equips library professionals with the skills to strengthen teamwork, improve communication, and build a more supportive work culture. Participants will learn how to recognize and regulate emotions, develop empathy, and apply emotional intelligence strategies to enhance collaboration. Through real-world library scenarios, hands-on exercises, and self-reflection, staff will gain the tools to handle workplace challenges with confidence, foster positive interactions, and create a more cohesive, resilient team. By strengthening emotional intelligence, library teams can work together more effectively and provide exceptional service to their communities.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand Emotional Intelligence (EQ) – Define EQ and its role in fostering strong workplace relationships and team dynamics.
2. Develop Self-Awareness – Recognize personal emotions and their impact on decision-making, communication, and interactions.
3. Enhance Emotional Regulation – Learn techniques to manage stress, frustration, and workplace challenges with composure.
4. Strengthen Empathy – Improve the ability to understand and respond to colleagues’ and patrons’ emotions effectively.
5. Improve Team Communication – Apply emotional intelligence strategies to enhance listening, conflict resolution, and collaboration.
6. Navigate Workplace Conflicts with EQ – Use emotional intelligence to address misunderstandings and resolve tensions constructively.
7. Foster a Positive Work Culture – Promote psychological safety, trust, and mutual respect within the library team.
8. Adapt to Change with Resilience – Develop strategies for managing uncertainty, embracing change, and supporting colleagues through transitions.
9. Apply EQ to Patron Interactions – Use emotional intelligence to provide empathetic, effective service and handle difficult patron interactions with confidence.
10. Create a Personal EQ Development Plan – Identify areas for growth and establish actionable steps to enhance emotional intelligence in daily library work.