Light therapy lamps are one mode of treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as the “winter blues.” The lamps are designed to mimic spring and summer light levels. They are used by reading, working or relaxing in front of them for 20-30 minutes per day.

Find them at the following locations in Robarts Library!

3rd floor Media Commons (adjacent to Screening Room 1)

4th floor reference room (adjacent to shelf #25)

5th floor (beside micro-format reader outside the Map & Data Library, Room 5052)

10th floor (adjacent to shelf #30)

The lamps are available for use in the library, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Instructions for Use

Turn the lamp on and sit facing it, approximately 16 – 20 inches away, for 20-30 minutes while you are reading, working or relaxing. The light needs to shine on your eyes, but do not stare directly at the bulb. Adjust the angle of the lampshade downward, ensuring that you can still see both tubes. Please turn the lamp off when you are finished using it to preserve the bulb.

Please consult a health-care professional before using the lamp if you have been told you must wear sunglasses in sunlight, have a medical condition including retinal disease, macular degeneration, bipolar disorder or diabetes, or are taking certain medications (including, but not limited to, melatonin, thioridazine or lithium). If you are unsure whether using the lamps is contraindicated due to a medical condition or medication you are taking, please consult your doctor first. If you experience discomfort, stop using the lamp and contact your doctor.

The use of light therapy lamps should not be viewed as a substitute for seeking medical advice. Use of the lamps is at your own discretion. The University of Toronto Libraries are not liable for any health issues related to use of the lamp.

About Seasonal Affective Disorder

Feeling distressed?

Resources are available for University of Toronto students, staff, and faculty.

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Questions? Please contact christina.tooulias@utoronto.ca

With special thanks to Northern Lights Technologies, Robin Mazumder and the Chief Librarian’s Innovation Grant program for their support.