Therapy animals can be a low-barrier tool for promoting mental health in library spaces. Learn the process of developing and implementing therapy animal visits designed to support patron needs such a stress relief and reducing social isolation. Attendees will learn the science behind therapy animal visits and their mental health benefits, best practices for partnering with certified therapy animal organizations, and practical considerations like scheduling, risk management, staff training, and accessibility. Whether you're just curious or ready to launch your own program, this session offers actionable insights, inspiring examples, and a compassionate lens on how libraries can become healing-centered spaces. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with therapy animals during the presentation and will receive a guide on how to run a successful program.
