Finding Challenging Topics in the Library

Although library staff has an obligation to uphold privacy and confidentiality, we understand that there are certain topics that might be difficult to ask library staff about. Recognizing that there are topics that are not always easy to ask for help on, I have created a collection of book lists that touch on sensitive topics. It is my hopes that if you are uncomfortable asking staff for assistance on these topics face-to-face, these lists will be of value to you. Books on these lists have been selected for their relevancy, authority of the author, and reviews. These lists will updated as more resources become available.

Challenging Topics: Abuse/Domestic Violence

Challenging Topics: Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse

Challenging Topics: Anxiety

Challenging Topics: Dating

Challenging Topics: Death and Dying

Challenging Topics: Depression

Challenging Topics: Divorce

Challenging Topics: Eating Disorders

Challenging Topics: Emotional Abuse

Challenging Topics: Infertility

Challenging Topics: Infidelity

Challenging Topics: Marijuana and Cannabis

Challenging Topics: Mental Health and Emotions

Challenging Topics: Miscarriage

Challenging Topics: Money Matters

Challenging Topics: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Challenging Topics: Sex and Sexuality

Challenging Topics: Sexual Assault

Challenging Topics: Substance Abuse

Some of the topics presented on this list have been adapted from Melissa Laidman’s Tough Topics list, which is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.