Social Responsibilities Round Table of the American Library Association
How should we understand the increasing demonization and criminalization of homelessness across America? Is shelter alone enough for meeting the call of this moment, or merely an essential starting place? What can leaders in this field teach us about invoking empathy and critical analysis in responding to this complex set of issues?
“UK-headquartered architect Heatherwick Studio has designed a community library for Howard County Libraries in Maryland, USA with a focus on wellbeing and diversity.”
The public can now donate various goods and gift cards to help people who are unhoused at all city library locations and other sites throughout Long Beach.
MPL recently put together a new resource, “For Neighbors in Need,” a listing of local organizations that help those in need. This resource lists locations where people can go for assistance with food, clothing, laundry, hygiene, shelter, mental health and physical health. You can find this list at mhklibrary.org/for-neighbors-in-need, or as a handout at the Reference Desk on the second floor.
“Nearly one in four transgender young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 experience homelessness, nearly double the rate of their peers, according to the Trevor Project, a suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQIA+ young people.”
“Unlike prison libraries, which are not accessible around the clock, the portable Freedom Libraries are housed in the dorms, allowing 24-hour access to hundreds of books.”
“A new step in tackling chronic homeless in Columbia is set to open its doors in under a week.”
The city has begun initial work to use a portion of the long-vacant old Central Library to shelter homeless residents.
Date: Thursday, August 11, 2022 Time:2:00PM – 3:30PM ET
Description:
As we have witnessed the social, financial, and mental health challenges of our patrons escalate during the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries must connect and build relationships with local providers focused on these needs so that we may serve our communities as effectively as possible. This session will explore why it is imperative that libraries connect with social service providers in their communities, how to cultivate these connections, and tips to make sure the agencies you work with are effective, ethical partners.
This webinar will be recorded.