Finals Wellness Week: May 2^nd – 8^th

As the pressure of final exams sets in, the Atlanta University Center (AUC) Robert W. Woodruff Library is stepping up to support students in more than just their academic endeavors. From May 2nd through May 8th, the Library is hosting “Wellness from the Information Desk,” a weeklong initiative designed to provide calm, focus, and a sense of ease through low-stakes, engaging activities at the heart of campus learning.

This effort is more than a temporary break from study sessions—it’s a response to the growing recognition that student mental health must be prioritized, especially during high-stress academic periods. The stress and anxiety that often accompany finals can significantly impact performance and well-being. At the AUC Woodruff Library, we’re committed to offering a supportive environment that fuels academic achievement and nurtures the whole student.

Students who stop by the Information Services Desk during Wellness Week will find a curated selection of tools that encourage relaxation and creative expression. Stress balls, Zen artist boards, mandala coloring pages, Etch-A-Sketches, and noise-cancelling headphones are all available items that offer a chance to pause, breathe, and reset. These are not just “giveaways”; they are small but intentional interventions that can make a big difference in a student’s day.

This initiative reflects the library’s broader mission to be a place of community care and inclusive learning. We understand that academic success cannot be separated from mental health, and we are working to embed that understanding into our services. What may appear simple on the surface—a coloring sheet or a fidget tool—is part of a larger strategy to create a culture of wellness, reduce stigma, and normalize moments of rest.

We invite all AUC students to take advantage of these offerings, whether you need a quiet moment, a bit of creativity, or a break from your screen. We aim to support your studies and help you finish the semester grounded, motivated, and well.

Visit the Information Desk between May 2nd and May 8th to experience how your library creates space for balance and calm during finals. Sometimes, it’s the smallest moments that make the biggest impact.