Management of feelings: case studies from libraries in West Africa

Abstract

In recent years, library have been engaged in an evolutionary process, focusing on services to the public and the transformation of their spaces into third places. They are increasingly focusing their strategies on the development of partnerships and ways to increase membership. This transformation also involves programming around digital cultures, which makes it possible to attract, retain and above all crossroads new audiences around unifying projects. In this mutation, the role of the librarians also changes towards more animation and socialization, of trainers, of accompaniers on the borderline of confidants. The general observation quite often shows that this relationship between users of the library creates quite intimate relationships that lead to a loving relationship.

This study is based on a request from the FESSEUL Association to organise an event on 14 February 2019 at the library of the French Institute in Dakar. Upon receipt of the request, librarians and users gave meaning to the debate since they all received, at one time or another, a declaration of love from one or more users or even are victims of harassment. During the event, we gathered testimonies that prove that more and more couples are forming in libraries and this can be explained by the fact that librarians and users spend most of their time together, rubbing shoulders and enjoying each other. One component of this article will focus on the testimonies of library professionals who are constantly harassed by users. This raises several questions. Indeed, how to be open and firm while playing a role of mediator close to your public in the library.

This study will also ask other questions:

1. How are library personal-relationships born and how long do they last? 2. When the feelings are not shared, what approaches can be used to promote good working conditions ? 3. If one of them does not consent to this love, especially the librarian, how should he protect himself while maintaining a good relationship with the user?

In short, the article will share the love in the library as it is experienced and felt by West Africans.