#Mindfulinlis began as a Twitter challenge in 2018 focusing on mindful activities for library workers to complete for 21 days. Since 2018, the hashtag has grown into a call for care in librarianship through presentations, summits, an Instagram account, and mindful conversations. Throughout it all, Mindfulinlis has remained committed to empathetic, compassionate, and honest information sharing. It is through this sharing that we cultivate a more mindful library.
This website will offer blog posts, resources, and tools rooted in mindfulness. We engage with our audience to reflect mindfully on their work and lives as we have through social media. We believe mindful practice can support one in their own goals and needs, holistically. One just needs to practice. Look for more updates from “mindfuls” in the field and us. We look forward to sharing and growing with you.
Amanda M. Leftwich, M.S.L.S, RYT® 200
Founder and Head Mindful
Amanda M. Leftwich (she/hers) works as the Student Success Librarian at Montgomery County Community College. She holds a Master of Science in Library Science from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. Her expertise and research interests include mindful practice in librarianship, reflective practice, and communities of practice. She is the founder of mindfulinlis and co-creator of LibVoices.
Ingrid Ruffin, M.A., M.L.I.S.
Mindful Manager
Ingrid is a U.S. Air Force, veteran. Ingrid holds a B.A. in English with Business Minor (2007), as well as M.A. degrees in English (2009) and Masters in Library and Information Studies (2011), all from the University of North Carolina Greensboro. Mindful practice is an important part of Ingrid’s healing and recovery.
Ingrid is currently an Associate Professor and the Head of the Learning Commons at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. As the Head of the Learning Commons, Ingrid provides leadership and management, directly and through staff, for all areas of Learning Commons operations including development of partnerships, programs, spaces, services, policies, budget, and assessment so that it contributes successfully to the vision and mission of the University of Tennessee Libraries. Ingrid’s interests include creativity in higher education; emotional health and wellness; leadership and management; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
Audre Lorde
