Librarians regularly interact with library users whose needs are greater than typical library resources can address. Specifically, many of our patrons disclose personal crises such as family violence, mental illness or substance use disorder. These disclosures often require additional one-on-one time and resources that go beyond the scope of the library. In addition, not addressing them immediately can result in public safety issues that may negatively impact other library users.

The key element this partnership provides is access to public health resources and immediate interaction with a social work professional who is trained in crisis management and community resource utilization. Immediately connecting those in crisis with a social worker and public health resources benefits the individual, the library and the community. Additionally, it has increased the victim service providers access to community members who may not have been aware of their services.

The initiative increased connection of community with lifesaving and life-changing public health resources, and the presence of victim service providers in the community - six libraries currently participate in the partnership. Since implementation of the Community Resource Center partnership, approximately 1,000 library users have been connected or referred to public health resources. Additionally, the partnership has reduced high level crises by providing skilled response in a timely manner and, when necessary, connecting with first responder and mental health resources. The partnership resulted in a grant that allows the victim service provider to expand services to other libraries in the county.