This report reviews survey results from respondents regarding career services at a public library. The accessibility of the library allows all community members a space to seek out resources when other agencies may be closed. Career support services are not strictly social worker tasks but providing these more directed services to help patrons gain an idea of elevated social services for those who are unemployed or struggling financially. Providing career services may progress to add other social services and to give staff the proper training to help patrons navigate bureaucratic practices.

This article discusses how libraries are helping their patrons dealing with mental health needs. It details examples of mental health aid and the various ways patrons may receive services. The library helps patrons navigate resources so they can seek out assistance. It is a common behavior for patrons to look to the library for information and resources to meet a need. It presents expert help as ideal when social workers and other trained professionals are available for consultations or referrals. Partnering with organizations and agencies as well as considering whole community program support experts being available.

This study looks at public libraries dealing with the opioid crisis. It covers libraries that have a history of dealing with overdoses in their community. This study provides a window into what libraries are doing concerning those facing addictions. Since this study shows how some communities experience prevalent addiction epidemics, it emphasizes the critical role libraries have in helping community members that turn to their establishment to find safety. Using the information gathered it provides support as to the importance of patron access to viable resources and having thoroughly trained professionals to assist their needs.

Reviews the usage of public libraries during the economic recession of 2008. Visits increased and patrons sought out library services in the U.S. and U.K. Anecdotal evidence presents examples of librarians working with community members on unemployment aid. Information points to increased usage for those experiencing economic downturns and the social welfare services that could be provided to them.

Presents information describing the role of the public library during times of crisis and its fundamental uses. It references hurricanes, pandemics, economic recessions, and social injustice as times where the library has worked to meet patron needs. The text provides information about the types of services libraries offer with a brief description and examples from participants. The public library serves as social support and a community partner for patrons in times of crisis. It mentions that libraries do struggle to fully grasp how to help without further professional training or guidance.

This article is looking at Social Work within public libraries based off of three different models of social work; the Signup and Summon Model, The Outreach and Summon Model and the Social Work Center model. This article also looks at de-escalation tactics and work done during a crisis that public library social workers might encounter. Published in 2023.

With the San Diego Central Public Library, the researchers interviewed both library patrons and library staff exploring the library's strengths and weaknesses and whether having a social worker at the library or other changes could help. Help in terms of things such as housing instability, homelessness and crisis prevention. Published in 2022.

Frontline library workers were surveyed on their experiences with third-party violence, with questions on topics like policies, working conditions and new services and users. Findings show that there are tensions between libraries as community anchors and the day to day reality for staff as well as dysfunction and divide between different roles in the library. The article also includes recommendations for the future including social workers. Published in October 2022.

This study looks into resources and services at both academic and public libraries to address mental health and emotional well being of patrons. The findings point to a number of services and activities to support the needs of patrons and the challenges to provide them. Published in September 2021.