Embedding the serious leisure perspective into public library programs: Building resilient communities for the times of crisis

Resilience is what any community needs most during times of crisis. Public libraries can collaborate with communities to build this resilience before, during, and after a crisis such as a pandemic or natural disaster. There are several theoretical frameworks that can inform policy and practice to achieve this goal, and one of them is the Serious Leisure Perspective (SLP). The SLP is a suitable theoretical framework for this purpose because it explains how engaging in hobbies, voluntary activities, and amateurism can help people to be more perseverant, learn new skills and connect with like-minded people. Research shows engaging in such activities can enhance their competencies and overall wellbeing, which can equip them with the capabilities they need to overcome life challenges. Moreover, many leisure activities involve participation in communities and clubs, and these social connections are sources of support and belonging for them, which are crucial for developing resilience in the face of adversity. This paper reports early findings of a study examining the alignment between public library programs in Australia and the embedded concepts in the SLP as a theoretical framework. The study aimed to provide new perspectives that can inform policy and practice in these libraries.