Chair yoga, mindfulness and computer ergonomics were big hits in a special series organized by Cornell University Library, designed exclusively for library employees.

University Library had declared March its Wellness Month to provide camaraderie and extra motivation to those New Year's resolutions to pay more attention to well-being. The month included a series of 17 wellness lectures, workshops and clinics led by Cornell wellness professionals, held at various library locations across campus. The month concluded with a "walk with the university librarian."

All told, 171 staff members participated in the sessions, which also included massage clinics, relaxation strategies, life coaching, posture and body mechanics, healthy eating and time management.

Participants rated the sessions very positively, though because of the nature of the workshops, most did not want to be identified by name.

"I went to the healthy eating session," said one participant, "and I was relieved that I didn't need a degree in nutrition to understand the lecture. Beth McKinney's advice was reassuring and non-preachy, and many of her quotes still run through my head. Many thanks."

Another said of the session on relaxation strategies for de-stressing at work, "I learned some great skills for de-stressing, which are very helpful in both my personal and professional life." A staff member who went to the massage clinic noted how relaxing it was.

Participants at the computer ergonomics class were also pleased with what they learned -- especially since librarians spend a great deal of time behind a computer. "The session was helpful in providing suggestions on how to readjust my own chair. Thank you for offering it! It was great to also be able to try out different high-tech office chairs, just to get a feel for what fits better or not."

Several of the library staff members who went to the most popular class, chair yoga, noted its lasting effects. "I got some wonderful, practical exercises out of the class and have been sharing them with my co-workers," said one participant, while another said, "I actually went out and bought a yoga DVD last night because I had such an enjoyable time at the session yesterday!"

"We are very pleased with how this month turned out," said Anne Kenney, who was just named Cornell's Carl A. Kroch University Librarian. "Employee wellness and balance are critical elements of work life. This month's activities represent an important signal that the library is serious in its goal of being an employer of choice."

Linda Bryan, associate director for library organizational development, pointed out that the sessions also helped bring library staff together. "These sessions gave library employees an opportunity to share in something besides their work experience. I would strongly encourage other divisions and colleges to consider something similar," she said.