QPLA LEaD Professional Development - May 2026 - Dr Beth Wahler

Trauma-Informed Library Practices: Organisational and Individual Strategies for Reducing Challenges and Improving Care for All

QPLA LEaD Professional Development - May 2026 - Dr Beth Wahler

Date: 5 May 2026

Location: State Library of Queensland

QPLA are delighted to host Dr Beth Wahler as she delivers a six-hour interactive workshop designed to support staff and leadership in fostering a trauma-informed, resilient and effective library environment that emphasises strategies for reducing and responding to customer challenges while care for themselves and colleagues.

• Where: 9am-4.30pm, Tuesday 5 May 2026
• When: The Edge, State Library of Queensland
• Cost: QPLA Members - $220 (inc GST)
• Cost: QPLA Non Members - $275 (inc GST)

Ticket Sales Close: Friday 24 April 2026

Trauma-Informed Library Practices: Organisational and Individual Strategies for Reducing Challenges and Improving Care for All

This full‑day, highly interactive training empowers library staff and managers with practical, trauma‑informed strategies to navigate visitor challenges, strengthen communication, and support both personal and team wellbeing. Participants learn how to set and maintain healthy boundaries, de‑escalate heightened emotions, and apply self‑care and community‑care practices that build resilience across their teams.

The program explores changing community needs, trauma‑informed librarianship, and the realities of behavioural challenges in modern libraries. It offers clear, actionable techniques for preventing escalation, resolving boundary dilemmas, and fostering safe, supportive interactions with visitors and colleagues.

A strong focus on wellbeing helps staff understand the limits of self‑care, develop tools for managing high‑stress moments, and build long‑term resilience. The training also highlights collective approaches to employee wellness and introduces trauma‑informed leadership practices that create sustainable, supportive workplace environments.