Provides context for libraries working in a world where patrons may experience intense crises. It explains that during times of crisis many people turn to the library for support for long-term or short-term assistance. The library is used as strengthened social support for the community, especially for the most vulnerable populations. The author supports integration of ideas and partnerships between the library institution and social agencies to find the best ways to serve library patrons. Other aspects covered in the article discuss digital access and cultural support.

An academic article that reviews probable future practices in public libraries. Delivers information about libraries that implement social workers and social programs for their community. It explains the newer practice of using trained social workers through interviews with library and social work professionals. The article references ALA terms of services and predictions for the future of public library services. The article discusses training staff as a short-term solution, with employing a long-term provider in the future for best practices in service.

Academic perspective that reviews the concept of librarians addressing more comprehensive patron needs. It explains that despite not being trained as a social worker, librarians often address sensitive patron needs to varying degrees of success and patron benefits. She discusses working that libraries have to adjust since they have become a haven for many experiencing homelessness. It also presents the idea of combining 211 referrals to help patrons and to collaborate more with social service agencies. The author concludes that as trends continue the library must address how to work with stakeholders and change practices to best serve all patrons.

Assesses the future of public libraries and the shift in types of services offered. It explains how to be reflective of practices and measure current and future trends in the surrounding community and society in general. The library must evolve like the San Francisco library and consider adding social workers or other health professionals to the staff. The lens to review practices and services should be community based and centered around user experience.

A commentary that reviews social work and library collaborations. It presents background on how the professional values and practices are connected. Due to their social responsiveness the article explains the ever-changing practices of libraries to meet patron needs. Examples of spaces that have employed social workers are present and the future possibilities for partnership with educators training social work graduate students. There are opportunities for education and training future professionals more thoroughly in social service practices.

This article looks into literature written about social work and public libraries for review. The findings were split into three different types of collaboration; professionals and interns working directly with patrons, providing consultation and training for staff, and social workers linking library staff with social services. Published in July 2022.

This article talks about some of the common challenges when public libraries and social workers collaborate. This is to work as a guide for understanding and navigating these challenges as well as providing guidance for graduate education in both fields. Published in 2023.

This article discusses social work education and public library collaboration. There is discussion on the changing role of libraries and demands on librarians, field placement assignments, and outreach. Published in April 2021.

There is a mismatch between perceptions of what library staff and social workers are expected to do in their role. because of this there is often a hinderance to integrations of the social worker role. This article looks at role theory to the role both have in public libraries to see the success of social workers integrating into public libraries. Published in March 2025.