Self-lubricating bushings and bearings that include lubricant inserts that have central axes that are aligned substantially parallel to the central axes of their respective bushings or bearings. The lubricant inserts present a side edge that is substantially flush with the corresponding bearing surface of the bushing or bearing. The exposed edges of the inserts can extend to the longitudinal edges of the bearing surface of the bushing or bearing. The bearings and bushing can be incorporated into bearing assemblies.