Dear LM_Net,
I remember a study like this when I was doing my masters back in 1979 (it
could have been the same study) and it was filmed. The librarian who
checked out the books to patrons was asked to keep a neutral voice and
facial expressions while talking to each patron. Every other patron
checking out books was briefly touched by the librarian when they handed the
books back to the patron (a brush of the fingers on the patrons' hands).
The patron was then stopped at the door and asked a series of survey
questions, which one of the questions was about the library staff. Those
patrons who were briefly touched by the staff had pleasant and warm feelings
about the staff, including many patrons who thought the librarian had smiled
at them.
This brief contact had a profound effect on people. Since I saw this film I
will use the same technique on students if I can keep it natural. It works
well especially with students who have a lot on their minds. A brief touch
and a warm greeting brightens up their troubled day.
--
Peter G. Mohn, LMS
Snohomish Freshman Campus
Snohomish, WA
pmohn2001@earthlink.net
"You live and learn. Or you don't live long." -- Heinlein
On 3/5/06 2:36 PM, "Mary Ann Shaffer" <maryanns@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> I just have to share this. I hope no one minds. I have been reading several
> 'relationship' books lately. One that I finished recently is *Making Love
> Last Forever* by Gary Smalley. On page 242 he writes "At Purdue University,
> a study was conducted with librarians. Half were asked to touch those who
> came in to check out or return books or ask for information. The other half
> were to conduct business as usual, with no touching. And the study concluded
> that those who were touched had higher regard for the librarians and the
> books in the library, and they followed the rules more willingly." He
> credits the study: Helen Colton, *The Gift of Touch* (New York :
> Seaview/Putnam, 1983), 102.
> I just thought it was very interesting...as I remind students that they need
> to return borrowed books maybe I'll try a little hug around the
> shoulders..can't hurt!
>
> --
> Mary Ann Shaffer
> Media Specialist
> Ivey Lane Elementary School
> 209 N. Silverton St.
> Orlando, FL 32811
> 407-296-6420 ext 2227
> MaryAnnS@gmail.com
>
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