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

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Let the Library Help You Celebrate the National Day of Listening

Record Your Story Storycorps 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. Copies of the questions will also be available for pickup at the Main Library, King Road and West Toledo branches at the beginning of November. #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 reserve your time.

Check out the Adrene Cole Collection The 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 Sound Join 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

Explore Heartwarming Stories by Watching These Videos by StoryCorps

Two very curious brothers ask their dad some outlandish questions

Two nurse practitioners talk about treating infants exposed to opioids

Brian talks to Matt, who has been living on the streets, about the day they met

Ronald Clark remembers living inside a branch of the New York Public Library

The Bookmobile

Explore the Fascinating Stories Collected by StoryCorps by Checking Out The Books Below

Watch Ted Talks About Technology, Listening  and Conversation

Connected, but alone? | Sherry Turkle – Ted Talks

The Power of deliberate listening | Ronnie Polaneczky – TEDxPhiladelphia

10 Ways to have a better conversation | Celeste Headlee – Ted Talks

Learn About the Lost Art of Conversation and Listening With the Help of These Great Books

Learn About the Value of Listening and Good Conversation With the Help of These Articles

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

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Featured Image Credit: Conversation at the ‘IJ’ lake, Amsterdam by Thijs Paanakker (flickr)