Bibliotherapy and its therapeutic effect on seniors and children

SUMMARY: The article explores the potential applications of bibliotherapy in library and therapeutic practice, focusing on its principles and benefits for various target groups, particularly children with special educational needs and seniors. This work draws on both academic literature and practical field experience obtained during the development of the author‘s Master‘s thesis. The aim is to provide inspiration and insights for further reflection on how libraries and librarians can contribute to the mental well-being of their users through bibliotherapeutic reading.

KEYWORDS: bibliotherapy, target groups, children, seniors, literature, library practice, therapy, empathy, aromatherapy, music therapy, community events

Mgr. Tereza Lysoňková / absolventka oboru knihovnictví na Slezské univerzitě v Opavě, Filozoficko-přírodovědecká fakulta, Ústav bohemistiky a knihovnictví (Silesian University in Opava, Faculty of Philosophy and Science, Institute of the Czech Language and Library Science), Masarykova třída 343/37, 746 01 Opava