In THE COACHING HABIT, Michael Bungay Stanier combined neuroscience and behavioral economics with interactive training tools to transform practical advice into lasting habits. In his letter to librarians, he shares his favorite things about libraries and librarians, from the ability to find books and stories for every interest, to librarians working hard to keep important books on the shelves, and even to his own true love.
Love letters to Librarians.
Librarians. For me, the best of times and the worst of times.
The worst of times? My primary school librarian. I’m sure (mostly sure) she liked books; and absolutely certain she wasn’t keen on the kids who wanted to read them. But I survived with a love of reading intact.
The best of times? Let me name four.
The serendipity of the bookshelf. How extraordinary to wander down an aisle, and see different ideas and worlds and wisdoms jostling next to each other. In ten steps, I can move from car mechanics to Islam to Ursula K. Le Guin, and who knows what that three-body interaction might spark. One of my very few successes in law school was writing an article inspired by connections between ideas from three different journals that just happened to be sitting next to each other.
The marking of adulthood. My local library in Canberra, Australia, had a kids’ section and upstairs, an adults’ section. I still remember that moment of being permitted to ascend. I was crossing a threshold. New worlds, new words, new responsibilities. A few years ago, when I was visiting family, I popped back into that library. Not only was it going strong, they had one of my books in their Recommended section. A career highlight!
Champions of agency. I’m best known for my book, THE COACHING HABIT. It’s been enough of a success that we’re able to publish a ten-year special edition. I’ve come to realize that the deepest power of being more coach-like is that people feel seen, heard, and encouraged. It’s an invitation for people to claim agency and be the best that they can. Librarians do that. From how you welcome us into your library, to the way you fight for books of all types to stay on your shelves. It’s the important work, and I’m grateful you do it.
True Love. Also, on a more personal note when it comes to librarians, reader, I married one. The best of the best of times.
Thank you
You’re awesome and you’re doing great,
Michael Bungay Stanier
Author of THE COACHING HABIT
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