Everyone has a story to tell and everyone deserves to be heard. People feel appreciated, understood, and even loved when someone takes the time to really listen to them.
Lately, I’ve been reading articles and watching videos about how we’re all so connected yet less happy. I know just thinking about it is a bit of a downer, but really it’s an interesting topic and one that deserves more attention. In the age of social media we’re sharing more, but connecting less. What’s wrong with this picture? After all, how can you share more and yet still feel disconnected? So, ask yourself this: when was the last time you had a real conversation with someone and truly listened to the other person? By truly listening, I mean you weren’t just waiting for your turn to speak.
What is the National Day of Listening?
Launched in 2008 by StoryCorps, the National Day of Listening takes place every year the day after Thanksgiving. The project encourages people to sit down with a loved one and record a meaningful conversation.
An Intro to StoryCorps from our Founder Dave Isay
Let the library help you celebrate the National Day of Listening
Record Your StoryStorycorps launched the National Day of Listening as a way to encourage families to set aside the day after Thanksgiving as a time to share and record the history of their family, friends, and community. Visit StoryCorps.org for a DIY guide and to upload your recording to Storycorps’ Wall of Listening. #NationalDayofListening Use the Library’s recording studio to capture your interview on our equipment or use your phone in our acoustically ready space. Call the West Toledo Branch at 419-259-5290 or the King Road Branch at 419-259-5380 to learn more about our studio spaces. |
Check out the Adrene Cole CollectionThe African American Oral History Collection of Lucas County connects people and generations by preserving and sharing local voices and perspectives for future generations. Claude Black | Adrene Cole Collection – Toledo Lucas County Public Library |
Check out Sight and SoundJoin host Tom Walton as he interviews Toledo’s top public figures; celebrating their unique impact on Toledo history. Sam Szor | Sight & Sound – Toledo Lucas County Public Library |
Videos by StoryCorps
Books by StoryCorps
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Ted Talks about technology, listening, and conversation
| Connected, but alone? | Sherry Turkle – Ted Talks |
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The Power of deliberate listening | Ronnie Polaneczky – TEDxPhiladelphia |
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10 Ways to have a better conversation | Celeste Headlee – Ted Talks |
Books about conversation and listening
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Articles about conversation and listening
The Lost Art of Conversation – USA Today
Is Conversation a Lost Art? – Wonderopolis
Saving the Lost Art of Conversation – The Atlantic
10 Tips to Talk About Anything with Anyone – Psychology Today
The Art and Value of Good Listening – Psychology Today
Active Listening: Hear What People are Actually Saying – Mind Tools
Featured Image Credit: Conversation at the ‘IJ’ lake, Amsterdam by Thijs Paanakker (flickr)
Originally posted by Toledo Lucas County Public Library blogger April S. at http://www.toledolibrary.org/blog/national-day-of-listening.