University life can be exciting, full of opportunities, and a chance to grow both academically and personally. But it also comes with its challenges—managing deadlines, balancing study with work or social life, and sometimes just finding space to breathe. That’s why York St John University’s Library & Learning Services has created Wellness Reads, a collection designed to support your wellbeing and help you thrive during your time at university.
What is Wellness Reads?
Wellness Reads is a carefully curated collection of books and resources, chosen by the University’s Wellbeing, Disability, and London Wellness teams. The aim is simple: to give you access to material that can positively and affirmatively support your mental health and wellbeing, personal growth, and intercultural understanding.
The collection draws inspiration from the Reading Agency and NHS Reading Well initiative, a scheme that uses books as a form of social prescription. In other words, reading can be more than a hobby—it can be a tool for self-care, resilience, and inspiration.
What can you find in the collection?
The books and resources cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Mental health and wellbeing – exploring mindfulness, stress management, and emotional resilience.
- Disability life stories – real experiences that bring insight, strength, and inspiration.
- Self-development – tools to help you build confidence, manage change, and grow personally.
- Intercultural living – resources to help you navigate and celebrate diverse cultures and perspectives.
Whether you’re looking for practical strategies, personal stories that resonate with your own experiences, or simply a comforting read, there’s something here for you.
Where can you find Wellness Reads?
You can explore the collection in person at both campuses:
- York Campus – Fountains Library, Ground Floor
- London Campus – London Library, Third Floor
Or, if you prefer browsing online, you can check out the full list here: Wellness Reads Collection.
How to get involved
Wellness Reads isn’t just a fixed collection—it’s something that can grow with your input. If you have a suggestion for a book that should be included, or if you feel something is missing, you can email library@yorksj.ac.uk to share your recommendation.
Why give it a try?
Reading can provide a quiet moment of reflection, a different perspective, or even the reassurance that you’re not alone in how you’re feeling. Wellness Reads is here as a resource for you—whether you need support in a challenging moment or simply want to explore new ideas for personal growth.
So next time you’re in the library, or browsing online for your next read, take a look at Wellness Reads. It could be just the resource you need to pause, reflect, and recharge.
By Thomas Peach, Academic Services Manager
