Public libraries are struggling to address growing numbers of high-need patrons experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, mental health problems, substance abuse, and poverty-related needs. Creating a Person-Centered Library will help librarians build or contribute to library services that will best address patrons’ psychosocial needs.

The authors, experienced in both library and social work, begin by providing an overview of patrons’ psychosocial needs, structural and societal reasons for the shift in these needs, and how these changes impact libraries and library staff. Chapters focus on best practices for libraries providing person-centered services and share lessons learned, including information about special considerations for certain patron populations that might be served by individual libraries. The book concludes with information about how library organizations can support public library staff.

Librarians and library students who are concerned about both patrons and library staff will find the practical advice in this book invaluable.

Features

• Provides a comprehensive overview of the various services, programs, and collaborations that can help public librarians address their patrons' needs
• Teaches library directors how to support staff working with high-need patrons
• Offers best practices for libraries providing person-centered services and shares lessons learned
• Connects person-centered libraries to recent conversations related to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Examines timely lessons learned about cultural and societal impacts on libraries from the COVID-19 pandemic