https://dx.doi.org/10.1249/01.mss.0000761908.65642.89">
 

Physical Activity And Programming That Promotes Healthy Behaviors In College Libraries

Abstract

PURPOSE: College libraries can be excellent partners for promoting physical activity and health on the college campus. College libraries are community gathering spaces and often distribute important information to the campus community. The purpose of this study was to document what type of programming promoting physical activity and healthy behaviors (PA/HB) is being offered at campus libraries.

METHODS: A 15-minute online survey was developed based on the survey used by Lenstra (2017), examining programming related to PA/HB in community libraries. College librarians were invited to complete the survey by email and by postings on librarian websites. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis.

RESULTS: Forty-four college librarians completed the survey. Seventeen did not offer any programming related to PA/HB and were not included in the results. Of those campus libraries that offered PA/HB, 13 had less than 5000 students on campus, 5 had between 5000 and 15000 students, and 9 had greater than 15000 students. PA/HB that was offered included yoga (n = 10), Zumba (n = 2), walking (n = 5), bicycling (n = 1), running (n = 1), gardening (n = 2), stress and anxiety reduction (n = 24), fitness challenges (n = 3), and fitness equipment and passes to check out (n = 2). Participants in the programs included all members of the community (students, faculty, staff). The majority of the activities were offered on weekday afternoons, followed by weekday evenings and mornings. Activities were not offered as often on weekends. Librarians reported that the reasons for offering these programs included lifelong learning (n = 4), health and wellness (n = 6), community engagement (n = 11), and stress and anxiety reduction (n = 27). Most librarians reported no administrative issues associated with offering PA/HB (n = 18).

CONCLUSION: College libraries offer a variety of health promotion activities, with stress and anxiety reduction being the most popular activity. Exercise and health-related academic programs should consider collaborating with campus libraries and librarians to promote health and physical activity on campus.

Department

UNH Library

Publication Date

8-2021

Journal Title

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise

Publisher

ACSM

Document Type

Article

Rights

© 2021 by the American College of Sports Medicine

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