Modern libraries support their patrons’ social, mental, and physical wellbeing, in addition to their information needs (Greenwood, 2022). As numerous readings in Module 5 attested, this support means libraries, in addition to books, also provide access to technology, the internet, employment resources, food and clothing, mental health resources, and the list goes on and on to include a truly holistic view of patron needs. Libraries are uniquely positioned to do this work. They are considered safe spaces and trusted institutions by many community members (Dixon, 2017). This is important because it means patrons—especially the most vulnerable patrons—feel comfortable coming to libraries to seek help. Libraries are also places of connection. Patrons can connect with each other through library programs like book clubs or craft groups (Hasan, 2022). The library also connects with other community networks (private and governmental) to provide funding for these resources (Williams, 2021).
Example: Summer Lunches
“20210810-FNS-UNC-0015” by U.S. Department of Agriculture is in the public domain
My local public library runs a summer meal program that is a great example of holistic support. During the summer, the library prepares and serves free lunch on weekdays. The goal is to ensure children get fed during the summer. However, these meals are open to anyone. The library serves about 35 – 70 meals a day. This program is funded through donations from local businesses and individuals. One library staff member prepares and serves all the meals, with the help of volunteers. (One of the volunteers is my mom, who was my source for this information.) When I heard about this program, my first thought was this seemed like a waste of staff time. This library only has two full-time staff, and the meal preparation and clean up takes most of the workday for one. This person oversees most of the technical service functions of the library. When I heard she had to do all this cooking, I wondered how she would have time to do her actual job. This module has shown me that meal service is her actual job. The library is doing important work to support the physical well-being of vulnerable children in the community. Allotting library staff time arranging funding sources and cooking meals is absolutely appropriate. They are supporting the holistic needs of their community.
Implications for My Work
I don’t know why I was surprised by this meal program at the public library because the college where I work also focuses on holistic student support. After all, students cannot be successful in their classes if their basic needs are not met. For me in the library, this holistic support mainly means referring students to other departments for help. Other departments on campus offer great services that we in the library do not need replicate. This includes a food pantry, free clothing, transportation vouchers, financial coaching, employment help, etc. Right now, the library mainly contributes to holistic support by providing internet hotspots and technology to students. However, this module has me thinking about how the library is well-positioned as a partner with many campus and community organizations, and we can do more to be a better support for holistic community needs.
References
Dixon, J. (2017, October 23). Convening community conversation. Library Journal. https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/convening-community-conversations-programming
Greenwood, C. (2022). Healthy library, healthy life. INCITE, 43(6), 24.
Hasan, T.N. (2022, October 20). ‘Free, non-judgemental, accessible’: How your local library is a sanctuary of health and wellness. SBS Bangla. https://www.sbs.com.au/language/bangla/en/article/free-nonjudgmental-and-accessible-how-your-local-library-is-a-sanctuary-of-health-and-wellness/t15blzsi9
Williams, A. (2021, March 17). How libraries are bridging the digital divide. Internet Society. https://www.internetsociety.org/blog/2021/03/libraries-are-bridging-the-digital-divide/