UNL Libraries has hosted monthly Pawp-Ups in partnership with Big Red Resilience & Well-Being and the department of Entomology since Fall 2022. The program has grown over the past year with a total of more than 340 individuals participating at both Dinsdale Family Learning Commons and Love Library.
There is abundant research on how therapy dog programs in libraries can help students mitigate stress and support their overall well-being. Regina Flowers, Learning Commons & Events Coordinator is reminded of the power of this program every month when she observes Husker students light-up while interacting with the dogs.
“The Libraries love to host this type of program and it would not be possible without the support of our community partners and local therapy dog teams from Domesti-PUPs, Healing Heart Therapy Dogs and Uplifting Paws,” Flowers explains.
The students and Libraries staff love it too. Big Red Pawp-Ups are scheduled for the remainder of the semester from 12 – 1:30 p.m. at the Dinsdale Family Learning Commons, Room 104, on October 11, November 8, and December 6 and at Love Library, Room 221, on October 12, November 9, and December 7.