Here’s How the Oakville Public Library is Beating the Winter Blues

Halton | Oakville | Ontario | Latest News |

Published February 26, 2019 at 4:54 pm

During the winter months, it is not uncommon for people to feel a little down, especially in Canada.

During the winter months, it is not uncommon for people to feel a little down, especially in Canada. It is cold, people don’t usually want to spend too much time outside, some may lack energy, and the days tend to be longer – this, for a lot of people, often results in a case of the winter blues. 

In fact, according to the Oakville Public Library, research suggests that 15 per cent of people experience some form of winter blues during the colder months.

However, there may be a solution.

Here’s how the Oakville Public Library is working to beat the winter blues. 

Recently (Feb. 25) the Oakville Public Library introduced light therapy lamps at several of its locations (the Central, Iroquois Ridge, Glen Abbey, and Woodside branches).

“These types of lamps can be expensive for individuals to purchase, and we wanted everyone in our community to have an opportunity to benefit from them,” Cathy Burke, Manager of Customer Experience at Oakville Public Library, said in a press release.

So, what exactly are these lamps?

According to the release, these lamps mimic natural outdoor light and are believed to lessen the symptoms of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder – a form of depression that impacts two per cent of Canadians, according to the release). The lamps are also believed to help improve people’s moods.

The lamps are provided at the library branches on a first-come, first-served basis. Customers are encouraged to sit, read, or work in front of the lamps for around 20 to 30 minutes per day.  

The Central, Iroquois Ridge, and Glen Abbey branches each have two lamps and the Woodside branch has one.

Light therapy, according to the library, is considered to be safe, however, anyone with health concerns is encouraged to speak with their doctor before using the lamps.

Photo is courtesy of the Oakville Public Library Facebook page.

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