Professionals in the Library
A Comprehensive Wellness Approach for All
Building a stronger, healthier community - together.
Baltimore’s Central neighborhoods are home to a rich mix of residents from various walks of life—students, professionals, retirees, and families. With this diversity comes a wide array of challenges, from financial stress and career transitions to health concerns and social isolation. The “Professionals in the Library” program is designed to meet these varied needs by offering holistic wellness support through the lens of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness: Emotional, Environmental, Financial, Intellectual, Occupational, Physical, Social, and Spiritual well-being.
A Comprehensive Wellness Approach for All
“Many people in our community are facing complex challenges that go far beyond their immediate needs,” says Val Traore, Executive Director of VLP. “The idea behind the ‘Professionals in the Library’ series is to take a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing that factors like financial stability, emotional health, and even access to safe green spaces can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.”
Each month, VLP will host workshops and events led by local experts—therapists, financial advisors, health coaches, environmentalists, career counselors, and more—offering residents an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve their well-being in a welcoming community environment.
The Eight Dimensions of Wellness: A Holistic Framework
Emotional
Sessions with mental health professionals will focus on stress management, mindfulness, and emotional resilience.
Environmental
Community gardening and sustainability workshops will help residents engage with nature and learn about environmental stewardship.
Financial
Financial literacy workshops will provide practical advice on budgeting, saving, and long-term financial planning.
Intellectual
Book clubs, discussions, and educational seminars will encourage lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity.
Occupational
Career development workshops, job search resources, and resume-building sessions will support residents in their professional journeys.
Physical
Fitness classes, health screenings, and nutrition workshops will promote healthy living and physical well-being.
Social
Social events and community-building activities will foster connection and reduce social isolation.
Spiritual
Meditation sessions and interfaith dialogues will provide opportunities for personal reflection and spiritual growth.
Bringing
experts to the community.
A key feature of the “Professionals in the Library” program is the active involvement of local experts, collectively known as the Professionals in the Library. These professionals will provide their knowledge and services directly to the community, making high-quality wellness resources accessible to everyone.
From financial advisors offering guidance on managing debt, to environmental experts leading discussions on sustainability, to health professionals conducting fitness classes and nutrition workshops—this diverse array of experts will ensure that participants have access to practical tools and knowledge that can immediately improve their lives.
“For many people, finding time or money to consult with professionals in these areas can be a challenge,” says Traore. “By bringing these experts into the library, we’re removing barriers to access and making it easier for people to get the support they need.”
Attend a 'Professionals in the Library' workshop.
The “Professionals in the Library” series will begin this fall and sessions will be free and open to the public. All community members are encouraged to attend.
If you are interested in being one of our professional partners, reach out to Aja Stolz, aja.stolz@villagelearningplace.org