Last Spring, Plymouth District Library began providing patrons the opportunity to “check out” self-proclaimed experts of several disciplines and niches, such as running, cooking, technology, or gardening. Interested community members can sign up for 20-minute consultations with these experts to ask questions, receive support, or learn something new.
Now, PDL’s current Social Work Intern, London Harfoot, is offering Check Out An Expert sessions for patrons of any age in need of social work services and support, “As a social work intern, I am here to help with application [support] and resource navigation,” she added, “As well as being just a friendly face to talk to.”
London is a student at Eastern Michigan University working toward her Master of Social Work (MSW). Since January, she’s been interning at the library, helping out on the Reference Desk and creating programs and initiatives to better the community and educate patrons on the importance of social work services.
Library Director, Shauna Anderson, explained that while social work in libraries is a relatively new concept, it is a powerful resource. “The number of requests we receive from patrons for social service referrals has increased over the years,” she said. “Social workers have deep knowledge that can improve personal and community wellbeing while also taking some of the pressure off library staff.”
London added that by offering her services in a library, she welcomes patrons in need to join her in a neutral location accessible to anyone in the community. “The goal is to be able to meet people where they are at in a very low barrier environment,” she explained, “As social workers, we want to provide all individuals with the assistance, care, and information they need to live their best lives.”
In addition to her Check Out an Expert sessions, London is hosting a program throughout the Summer at the library called Mindful & Mighty, where kids ages 9 through 14 can build confidence and emotional skills while their caregivers connect with professionals that will help them grow stronger together. The goal of the program is to help both children and their caregivers navigate change in a welcoming environment.
Though London’s internship at the library will conclude in August, patrons can continue to check out social work resources with a new intern in the Fall. In the meantime, community members are welcome to book London for 20-minute sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, and she is always available to answer questions or provide resources via the info@plymouthlibrary.org email address.
Ultimately, London is excited to connect with patrons and share her expertise, “I am looking forward to meeting the community patrons and to help in any way that I can.”