Mission
- To readily connect our patrons and staff to information (both physical and digital) to educate and inform their optimal mental health.
- To reduce stigma often associated with mental health issues so that our patrons and staff feel empowered to seek whatever help they need.
- To be a bridge of information to our community partners, who can further assist with their expertise.
Vision
- A community that feels more at ease discussing mental health as a part of their overall health, and has greatly freed itself of the stigma that surrounds mental health topics so that they feel ready to reach out for help and know that they are not alone.
Values
- Diversity: We honor that everyone has their own story, and that one person’s mental health needs will be different from those of another. We strive to work across age groups, ethnicities, disability and socioeconomic status by working with affinity teams and service levels to best meet the needs of each group.
- Inclusion: We include all in our mission to optimize mental health in our community.
- Education: We strive to continue educating ourselves with the goal to connect patrons to mental health education and support.
- Community: We are welcoming, open, and ready to connect our patrons with the information they need to maintain good mental health.
Synapse Picks
Synapse Team supports the community in mental wellness
Oct 26, 2022
PCPL has launched its newest affinity team. Synapse aims to create a community that feels at ease discussing mental health without stigma.
Demand for mental health care soaring on campus
Colleges and universities across the U.S. are leaning on faculty, staff, and even students to help bridge the mental health gap.
Dopamine Detox: Answers to 6 Key Questions
Rohit Madan, MD, a psychiatrist with Banner - University Medicine, shares information about the pros and cons of this trendy practice.
Bouncing Back From Burnout
These books published in 2023 are recommended by Publisher's Weekly. To see the article in full, please follow the link in the list.
Use science to feel better
Dr. Faith Harper has some amazing books about using science to get over anxiety, understand frustration, sleep better, and more!
Tween Mental Health: When a child mentions suicide
"Tweens always need to know you love them and that you are here for them. That is never more important than when they are suffering."
The On Our Sleeves Movement
Our vision is to build a world where mental health is a part of the upbringing of every single child—but it’s no easy task.
Meet Beth of the Synapse Team
"I think—some people—kindness is just an integral part of who they are." - Beth
We Recommend – Greater Good Magazine
This publication offers science-based insights for a meaningful life. Visit their website to read a wide array of articles.
Synapse Team presents a Community Dialogue on Mental Health
Sep 12, 2023
We're hosting a Community Dialogue on Mental Health to address difficult topics that teens encounter on a daily basis.
We Can All Prevent Suicide
Visit the crisis lifeline to learn about risk factors, recognize warning signs, and read stories of hope and recovery.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
Uplifting Documentaries to Help You See the Bright Side
When life gets heavy, then try one (or more) of these uplifting documentaries. It definitely put a smile on my face to watch these.
Hobbies for Mental Health: Drawing Edition
Activities that require focus help me with overwhelm & stress. Here are books I've referenced in my recent return to drawing.
Mental Health & Wellness: New Fiction & Nonfiction for Teens
See the annotations for which mental health and wellness topics each book covers.
I am free and that is why I am lost
Anxiety & dread accompany the post-modern human condition. These books explore common themes, from the personal to the extra-terrestrial.
Universal Class: 500+ Online Courses
With 500+ courses on topics from conflict management to baking essentials, you can spend countless hours learning to your heart’s content.
E-Library highlight
Sign up for Universal Class with your library card to take free online courses.
Step 1: Click on Universal Class on the left
Step 2: Create your account
Step 3: Try the courses on the right
The Library's Synapse Team
