In the Bay Area, affordable housing is at a crisis point; the 2017 homeless count showed a 39 percent increase over 2015. Other community members, such as immigrants, are unable to access benefits due to fear of persecution. Patrons need social services, but librarians are not social workers nor can the library hire social workers. The "Community Kiosk" is a free solution that provides skilled help for patrons and strengthens the library’s ties to community organizations.

Community Kiosk" provides a safe, welcoming space for patrons to interact with organizations that provide housing, food, legal help and other essential services. It allows the library to engage in meaningful relationships with service organizations beyond simple informational referrals. Staff can connect patrons with confidence - and without the pressure to solve every crisis personally. The drop-in model means there’s little pressure to build up and guarantee audiences, in stark contrast to a formal program.

The "Community Kiosk" model has proven successful because of the meaningful connections the space provides, both as patrons find service providers and as the library finds new partners and strengthens existing relationships. Already one homeless patron has been placed in housing. Many more stop by regularly for hygiene kits, or just a cup of coffee and a chat. The community can see daily who is providing help; this visibility makes our network of support stronger.