“When we feel lonely, we may not recognize the opportunities to form or strengthen connections with others. [… But] there are people all around us who will respect, appreciate, and care about us.”
- @AnnotatedAudrey
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection, 1 in 6 people worldwide is affected by loneliness, and recent survey data from the American Psychological Association reveals that 54% of respondents regularly feel isolated, left out (50%), or lacking companionship (50%).
Research has shown time and again how crucial human connection is to both our mental and physical health. Through our winter 2026 postcard writing project, Synapse—Pima County Public Library’s mental health affinity team—would like to encourage the members of our beautiful Pima County community to engage with each other, and spread a bit of care and joy.
To help us on this mission, local creator and friend of PCPL, Audrey De La Cruz (@AnnotatedAudrey) has designed 3 beautiful and empowering postcards (click on images below for full view) that we invite you to color in, fill out, and send or deliver to a friend, loved one, community member, or stranger, with whom you would like to share the joy of connection.
Alternatively, drop off your completed postcard(s) at the service desk for delivery to a nearby community institution, chosen by your branch’s staff, to whom we’d like to spread a little extra love this winter.
Postcards will be available at branches in early February and will be distributed while supplies last.
Thank you for helping us spread love and fight loneliness! You matter so very much.
In care and community,
Your PCPL Synapse team
Sources:
- American Psychological Association (2025). Stress in America™ 2025: A Crisis of Connection. www.apa.org/pubs/reports/stress-in-america/2025.
- World Health Organization (2025). From loneliness to social connection - charting a path to healthier societies: report of the WHO Commission on Social Connection. www.who.int/publications/i/item/978240112360.
