Serving At-Risk Patrons: Lessons from Library Social Workers

Looking for ideas on how to provide services to vulnerable customers in your library system? Join two library social workers to learn how libraries are on the front lines of social work – and how you can help patrons in need in your own communities.

Jean Badalamenti joined the District of Columbia Public Library in 2014 as Health & Human Services Coordinator in the library’s Programs & Partnerships division. In her presentation, “Left Behind: How the DC Public Library is Engaging Customers Experiencing Homelessness,” she will discuss homelessness in the District of Columbia and DCPL’s unique role in the lives of people experiencing homelessness. Badalamenti will also discuss DCPL initiatives targeting this population and plans for future initiatives serving customers returning from jail/prison, many of whom lack stable living arrangements.

Robert Simmons joined the Oak Park (Ill.) Public Library in March 2016 in a new position of Manager of Community Resources. He brings more than a decade of social work experience to the library. In his presentation, “Oak Park Public Library: How We Serve Our Most Vulnerable Patrons,” Simmons will describe OPPL’s role in serving vulnerable populations and the guiding philosophies that influence the library’s work. Other topics will include patron advocacy, strategic partnerships, and how to safely engage with challenging patrons.