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Blog Post- Public Libraries and the Homeless

Walt Oliwa, student at Palomar College, for an assignment in LT130 Library Media and Technology

5/23/2024

          The American Library Association points out that public libraries are public places which form community. (Lilienthal, 2011). ALA Policy 61 notes “an urgent need to respond” by libraries to poor in America (Lilienthal, 2011, p30).  I believe that homeless persons do not voluntarily choose to be homeless, but rather circumstances sometimes force people to be. For instance, mental illness, drug addiction, medical conditions, loss of jobs, and even running from legal consequences may mean a person ends up homeless. Rather than argue about the responsibility of the person for their plight, perhaps we as a society can extend a reasonable amount of help, for their benefit and for the benefit of our society also.

          Some libraries have instituted programs to help the homeless. For instance, the San Francisco Public Library provides an outreach program to help people find resources. Other libraries have provided free meals, and even social workers. Libraries can’t solve the whole problem, but we can reorient our view of the homeless as “a problem”, to a call to rally resources.

          I recently volunteered at a local public library and saw the efforts of the library to help the homeless. First, several homeless people take refuge during the day at the library. Also, recently the library got a grant to have a part time social worker in an office there to help people. While this help does not always work out perfectly, it is a step.

          Finally, I want to share a link to a movie which I recently saw called “The Public” (movie). This story of how some people’s perception of an issue can be changed affected me.

References

Lilienthal, S. M. (2011). The Problem Is Not the Homeless. Library Journal, 136(11), 30–34.

“The Public”, movie, Hammerstone Studios, Cedarvale Pictures, E2 Films 2018.

Link to trailer for “The Public” on YouTube. https://youtu.be/6eZtMGM6ya8

Libraries and Student Success: LibGuides

 by Shinichi Evans

In bringing up that libraries are essential to student success, especially academic libraries, the response can easily be “Of course libraries are essential to student success. They have books, computers, WIFI, and lots of space to study.” While all these things help student success, there are services school libraries provide such as creating LibGuides. Often, this is a webpage that allows the student to see this helpful info anywhere with their phone or laptop. The question is, how helpful are these resources librarians create for student success?

Libraries and Homelessness

 by Shinichi Evans

The Public, a film focused on libraries and the homeless population, focuses on how libraries provide a space for homeless individuals as a community hub but also to escape the conditions of the harsh Cincinnati winter. The library, as managed by the librarian Stuart Goodson (portrayed by Emilo Estevez), also functions to fill the gaps not met by social workers as Goodson talks to the homeless individuals who regularly hang out at the library and hears their stories and humors their eccentricities. He must also address sticky situations, like dealing with highly disruptive individuals suffering from mental illness. Missing from this narrative is how the information needs of this population can be met in favor of the library becoming an impromptu night shelfter as Goodson gets pulled into their protest.

Libraries as Social Hubs: Building Online Community to support the Offline Community

 By Shinichi Evans

In the offline world, libraries function as social hubs with programs and events to reach the community. While people do come together seating at tables, chairs, and cubicles to read, study, or use the WIFI, libraries bring people together more directly through story times, workshops, maker spaces, and events hosted at the library. Individuals may find out about these programs through fliers displayed at exits or a literal message board in a prominent place… or they may find out about these things through the libraries website or more so through its social media site.

Libraries and Social Media: Authenticity in Library Social Media Accounts

by Shinichi Evans

The challenges of using social media for the library is that social media is constantly changing and the user engagement can vary from platform to platform. Even the platforms themselves can change how engagement occurs, such as the limiting or pushing of posts (due to algorithm changes) while users connecting with some types of posts more than others. Also, each of these applications reach some demographics more than others (especially in age) like Instagram and Tik Tok and some even have different purposes, like how LinkedIn appeals to job searchers and those making professional connections. In any case, these applications require understanding the audiences who use them and appealing to them as the account author who is authentic.

Libraries and Student Success

 By Karen Cosmano

Libraries are known to help with student success. For elementary school aged children, the school librarian often collaborates with teachers to expand and deepen learning activities. Library time for read-alouds allows children to have repeated and diverse experiences with different topics. Library classroom activities can be set up to reinforce learning and promote stronger information recall (Betts). The California Department of education has conducted research that shows a strong relationship between student engagement in library programs and increased achievement, especially at the high school level (https://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/cr/lb/caschoollibraries.asp). There is a plethora of college and university research that concludes with similar findings.  

A question we might ask is how does social media intersect with school libraries and promote student success? There is plenty of anecdotal evidence that suggests a positive correlation. In a Publishers Weekly article from December 2022, Patricia J. Murphy reports on her discussion with four teachers and librarians about how they use social media. They each used a variety of social media platforms to highlight different library services, new books, encourage conversations, or to portray the library as a fun, educational, inspiring place to be. 

Libraries and the Homeless

By Karen Cosmano

Of people experiencing homelessness, 94% of them own a cell phone. Although this may seem surprising, many unhoused people are able to obtain a cell phone through government programs. The next challenge they face is keeping the phone charged (Hetrick). This is where a public library comes in. Some of the reasons homeless people come to the library are to charge their phones, use the restrooms, and have daytime shelter (Warth).

A tent setup in front of San Diego Central Library. (Nelvin C. Cepeda/The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Public libraries are learning to respond to the needs of the homeless population and there are many great resources available to help with the specific challenges this creates. The need for social workers within the library and strong partnerships with other community organizations providing food, shelter, and medical treatment is recognized. Libraries can introduce these services and typically have programs that help with job placement. 

Social Networking and Libraries

By Karen Cosmano

Social networking has become an essential way for libraries to communicate and connect with others. Most of us inherently understand what social networking is because it’s become a way of life, but let’s break it down to discuss library usage. Social networking can have various definitions but typically involves the elements of a person or user creating a profile, generating content that is viewed and interacted with by other users, and forming a lasting connection through followings. The vehicle for social networking is social media although those words are often interchanged with each other (Wright and Yasar).

Social networking has 4 main goals according to Gavin Wright of TechTarget, a network of technology experts. These are to share information, photos, videos, and interests; to learn new information; to interact with others without being present with them; and to market services and products. 

Libraries as Social Hubs

by Karen Cosmano

Not too long ago, libraries were known to be quiet places where people went to read or check out books. More recently, and in particular as a learning experience from the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries are becoming what is called “third place.” This is a place that is “separate from home and work where we seek conversation, neutral ground, and comfort in feeling connected” (Wood). Not only can this be a physical location as we would first think of, it can be a digital community as well with the development of and reliance on social media.

Let’s look first at the library as a physical place, as a social hub. When the COVID-19 pandemic ended, many libraries were eager to resume their regular programs such as children’s story time, book clubs, or author events, and people began to slowly reconnect. Not too long after that, however, the United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy reported that there was another health crisis, and it was called “loneliness.” Research shows that loneliness is detrimental not only emotionally but physically to individuals and therefore to communities because we don’t invest in each other, understand each other, and solve problems together. Libraries, which are known to be responsive and adaptable to social issues, began to address this public health concern (Rich 12). 

Adding a Gadget for Social Media Design

Link to free design tool - by Karen Cosmano

Hi! Did you know Canva has a tool for designing Social Media content? Their tools can be used on any platform - Facebook Stories and Posts, Instagram Posts and Reels, TikTok Videos, YouTube Thumbnail and Intros, etc. I've found Canva easy to use with colorful templates for our class brochures and infographics. It's great to know they also offer free design tools for Social Media, which will come in handy as Library Techs! Check out the link on the sidebar for quick access to the Canva Social Media design page and give it a try. This will also alert our blog readers to this free tool.

Libraries and Student Success

Libraries and Student Success
By Jennifer Miranda

Libraries play a crucial role in assisting students in being successful at school.  There are many techniques that librarians use to teach literacy.  One librarian that works in a rural school district in Kansas states how important it is to build a rapport with the students.  By having this relationship, you can interact with the student about what they are reading.  When they return a book, you can ask the student if they enjoyed the book and whether they would like to read a similar type of book (Brownlee 18). This form of interaction stimulates personal interest in a student so that they know you are there to support their academic needs. The librarian also applied for grant funding that would give her the opportunity to update part of the collection that the school district could not afford to replace (Brownlee 19).  She also has students that work in the library to teach librarianship and responsibility.  Students are also given the opportunity to provide input on what books they think should be incorporated into the library collection (Brownlee 21).

In a study conducted by Missouri public schools they completed an analysis on whether standardized testing scores were higher in schools that had certified librarians.  The results showed that there were significantly higher scores in the schools that had a full-time librarian verse the schools that had no librarian or a part time librarian (Buress et al. 1).  The researchers also looked at data from other states that showed a full-time librarian translated to higher student test scores.  These librarians are successful in teaching literacy and collaborating with teachers to assist with resources needed to build a stronger curriculum.  Full-time librarians also supported teachers in incorporating technology into their lesson to enhance depth to the curriculum being taught (Buress et al. 3).  The reasoning behind the success is not only that the librarian is full-time but has also taken course work and professional classes to support students in their academic endeavors (Buress et al. 16). 

Libraries and Student Success

 

                                             (Graef, 2024)

    Libraries have many uses, but they are often thought of as centers for reading, knowledge, and education. Whether it's a school library or a public library, the resources provided for students of all levels are important. Not only do libraries provide spaces for studying, but many libraries offer tutoring, workshops, computers, printers, and many other tools a student may need to complete their schoolwork. 

    The San Diego Public Library (SDPL) branches offer various events in relation to education. Every Tuesday, multiple branches offer "Do Your Homework at the Library" where they have tutors on site to help with kindergarten through eight grade student's assignments. The La Jolla/Riford Library also offers "math and reading buddies" for children all of ages on certain days. There are also multiple STEAM programs available including a program called "Library NExT (Network of Education x Training)". This program is in partnership with UC San Diego Extended Studies and Sally Ride Science and it provides a series of workshops for elementary, middle and high school students. The SDPL even has free SAT/ACT prep classes that you can register for. 

    Students relationships with their library can be really important. According to the California Department of Education, "California public schools with strong school library programs outperform those without such programs of student engagement and academic achievement. This is true regardless of the school community's parent education and poverty levels, ethnicity, and percentage of English language learners." There are many ways for a library to ensure they are providing a space for student success. One way is to make sure your library is open before, during, and after school hours. This gives students more time throughout the day to utilize the library. The more hours the library is open, the more chances students have to use the library regardless of school or extracurricular activities. Another way libraries can aid in student success is to make sure they have enough technology and a large enough collection of materials and that these resources are up to date. 

    Staffing is also extremely important. The SDPL utilizes teen volunteers for their tutoring. This is a great way to ensure there are enough people in the library to assist students and still assist other patrons in the library. If it is a school library, you want to be sure you have at least one full time teacher librarian and one full time paraprofessional (CA Dept of Education, 2023). Building off of this, you want to be sure not only the staff in the library is up to date on the technology and resources in your collection, but also the teachers in your school. This way everyone can work together to make sure the students know what is available to them and how to access/use these resources. These elements along with proper programming can be extremely helpful to the success of students at all levels. 

 Sources:

California’s school libraries make A difference. California’s School Libraries Make a Difference - School Libraries (CA Dept of Education). (2023, July 21). https://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/cr/lb/caschoollibraries.asp#:~:text=California%20public%20schools%20with%20strong,percentage%20of%20English%20language%20learners. 

City of san diego official website. Library NExT | City of San Diego Official Website. (2024). 

          https://www.sandiego.gov/librarynext 

Graef, Renée [@reneegraef]. (2024, April 4). "It's School Librarian Day! A big thank you to our school  

          librarians. We appreciate it!" [Photograph]. Instagram.

          https://www.instagram.com/p/C5V_lnAOl0f/?

          utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Upcoming events. Upcoming Events | San Diego Public Library. (2024). 

         https://sandiego.librarymarket.com/?page=3 

Libraries and the Homeless

 

                                             (Skidmore, 2024)    

    Libraries have always been a safe haven for me. I was raised by a single mother who sometimes had to work late at night. This meant I spent a few days a week walking home from school. The library was on my route home. I remember the day my mom took me in to get my first library card. I started reading a book from the Magic Tree House series and couldn't pull away. My mom had to explain that I could borrow it and take it home just to get my nose out of the pages. I stopped by almost every day after school and spent hours doing homework and reading in the library until it was time to go home. If the library could provide this safe space for me with all the resources I needed to get through the 2nd grade, then you can only imagine the resources they provide for the rest of the population. 

    Libraries have always been known for their endless resources. Many libraries provide help filing tax forms, resume writing workshops, and help with job search. There's also the added benefit that libraries are one of very few places you can reside in during operating hours without having to make a purchase of any kind. This provides a safe space for any unhoused person to stay warm, use the restroom, and avoid harassment (Ryan, 2023).

    The San Diego Central Library has always provided extra resources for their unhoused community. In 2013 when the old central library was emptied and the new library opened, they provided beds for anyone who did not have a place to sleep. The library reinstated this initiative recently bringing 34 new spots in for unhoused people to stay overnight for 180 days over the course of 12 months (Nelson, 2024). 

    Other libraries have similar initiatives. In Las Vegas, there are around 30 branches that are designated Safe Place sites for homeless youth and they provide hygiene kits. In Chicago, the libraries work to connect case managers with the unhoused so they can receive health benefits and apply for housing. In Salt Lake City, there is a library that offers free clothing for those who are living in encampments. There are even libraries who have made an effort to hire social workers as part of their staff (Ryan, 2023). 

    Because the library is a safe space for all the people in its community, there is an extreme importance to train library staff on de-escalation tactics. In the article, "Why US Libraries are on the frontlines of the homelessness crisis", Mackenzie Ryan writes about an incident in Anaheim, California where an unhoused man punched one of the library staff and knocked them unconscious. Ryan spoked to Ryan Dowd who works for Homeless Training about the importance of de-escalation. Ryan writes, "He (Dowd) says that he teaches library staff to focus on the behavior they're seeing. If someone is unhoused and caused a problem, then they have to deal with it. If a multimillionaire is in the library causing a problem, they also have to deal with it." 

    Creating safe spaces in libraries takes a lot of training and patience. It is important that people of all walks of life feel like their library is a place they can go for whatever they need. Libraries are meant to build community and providing services for people who have nowhere else to go is a major part of that mission. 

Sources:

Nelson, B. (2024, January 25). San Diego’s Old Central Library reopens as a homeless shelter for the next

        several months. Tribune. https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/homelessness/story/2024-01-

        24/san-diegos-old-central-library-reopens-as-a-homeless-shelter-for-the-next-several-months 

Ryan, M. (2023). Why US Libraries are on the frontlines of the homelessness crisis; Homeless people are 

        relying on public libraries as a safe haven to stay warm and avoid harassment from law enforcement, 

        advocates say. The Guardian. 

Skidmore, S. (2024). [Photograph]. 

Social Networking and Libraries

 

    Social media can be a great tool for outreach and connection. Libraries can utilize social media to share photos and videos, promote events and programs, upload webinars and programs online, hold book discussions, and so much more. 

    One way that libraries can utilize social media is to share photos and videos. Instagram is great app for this use. The San Diego Public Library has an account for the main library and for the teens section of the library. Both accounts have photos and videos of events, book selections, and programs. They also both have multiple "highlights" which are story posts that are saved under specific examples. The main library has one highlight titled "Where Are We Wednesday?" where they post photos of a different spot in one of the library branches and people can write in and guess where the photo was taken. They also have a highlight called "Ask An Expert" where you can reply any question about the library and one of the staff members answers the questions for. The other highlights give information on events and programs going on in different months like pride month, comic con, and more. On the teen library page they have three highlights, "Star Wars Day", "Class of 2020", and "BHM Books". 

    Another great way to utilize social media is through YouTube. YouTube is a great way to post educational videos, webinars, full coverage of events, and more. On the San Diego Public Library's YouTube page, they have playlists and multiple categories of videos. These categories include how-to videos for crafts and hobbies, livestreams (past and present), special events, book recommendations, virtual author events, and information on the history of the San Diego Public Library. 

        TikTok is a newer way to connect through social networks. TikTok provides short form videos for quick info, but you can provide links for further information. Tons of libraries use TikTok, but surprisingly I could not find one for San Diego Public Library. One of my favorite videos on TikTok is from the Herrick District Library in Holland. This video was posted around the last eclipse. One of the library staff is outside looking up at the sky and says, "Whoa! Is that the Eclipse?". Then another library staff member comes up and says, "Don't forget your glasses!" while handing the first staff member protective glasses for eclipse viewing. The first staff member puts on the glasses, looks up at the sky, and then it switches to their point of view. Here we see two hands holding up Eclipse by Stephanie Meyers. The caption on this video says, "Come to our eclipse viewing party. . ." I think this was a great way to advertise their event and make a fun video. This library also has a video where they introduce their library staff. This is another great way to utilize social media and create community. Library users can learn about their local library's staff members and maybe feel a little more comfortable to ask questions the next time they visit. 

    Social media can be used to create community and share information to a large audience quickly. I think it is extremely important that libraries recognize the impact they can make through social networks. 

Sources:

Herrick District Library. [@herrickdl]. (2024, April 4). Come to our eclipse viewing party at the North 

     Branch on April 8 from 2-4pm, where you can get your [Video]. TikTok. 

     https://www.tiktok.com/@herrickdl/video/7354122998951071018

Herrick District Library. [@herrickdl]. (n.d.). Herrick District Library in Holland, MI! Connect, discover,

      create [TikTok profile]. Retrieved May 8, 2024, from https://www.tiktok.com/@herrickdl?

     _t=8mDRumvG46A&_r=1

Marie Keen Shaw. (2022). Using Digital Information Services in the Library Workplace : An Introduction

     for Support Staff. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. 

Pietroluongo, L. (2022, September 20). 12 social media books website owners should be reading in 2021. Elegant Themes Blog. https://www.elegantthemes.com/blog/marketing/social-media-books 

San Diego Public Library [@sdpubliclibrary]. (n.d.). Posts [instagram profile]. Instagram. Retrieved 8 

     May, 2024, from https://www.instagram.com/sdpubliclibrary/

San Diego Public Library Teens [@sdplteens]. (n.d.). Posts [instagram profile]. Instagram. Retrieved 8

     May, 2024, from https://www.instagram.com/sdplteens/

YouTube. (n.d.). San Diego Public Library. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@sdpubliclibrary 

   

Libraries as Social Hubs

 Building Community: Libraries as Social Hubs

Ashley Lampert

    Libraries have long been known as a place to study, read, and learn. They are centers for knowledge, but libraries have also long been spaces for social interaction as well as a place for learning. Many libraries put on events, provide programming for kids and teens, and create spaces where you can hang out with peers.

    Libraries contribute so much to their communities, including places to make new friends. Through programs like book clubs, theme nights, and workshops, people of all ages can meet over shared interests. The San Diego Public Library has multiple book clubs, a concert series, art and cultural exhibits, and a how-to festival where you can take a bunch of different classes and workshops to learn a new hobby. You can find events for your local library on their website's events page. 

    Another great way that libraries create community is through programming for kids and teens. Some libraries will find local entertainers to create small concerts, read aloud sessions, and more. The San Diego Public Library has even created a specific space for teens. They have a section of the library that is exclusively for teens and has a recording studio for library users to record podcasts or music. They also provide programs for gaming including courses on coding and how to build your own video game. The San Diego Public Library also provides programs in partnership with the Media Arts Center San Diego. These programs were built to create relationships with teens and young adults in the City Heights area. The library and the center provide training programs in filmmaking, marketing, social media, and other creative outlets. 

    Your local library can be a great place to make new friends, learn a new hobby, and create community in your area. You can visit your library and ask about upcoming events, workshops, or meet ups. You can also visit your library's website to view their calendar to find a program or event. 

 Sources:

Change, A. of. (2024, April 9). Library social work. Agents of Change Social Work Test Prep.               

            https://agentsofchangeprep.com/blog/library-social-work/ 

Penny Peck. (2014). Crash Course in Children's Services: Vol. Second Edition. Libraries Unlimited. 

Rich, H. (2024). Hungry for Connection. Library Journal, 149(2), 12-15.

San Diego Public Library. (2018, February 20). SDPL teen space, part 1. YouTube. 

            https://youtu.be/hBfcucYg9pI 

San Diego Public Library. (n.d.). City of san diego official website. Programs & Events | City of San Diego 

             Official Website. https://www.sandiego.gov/public-library/news-events 

    

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I added a page views gadget to the bottom of the page so we can see how many people are interacting with our blog.

Adding a Gadget - Jennifer Miranda

 Hi Everyone,

I added: Powered By Blogger logo to the footer.

Libraries and the Homeless

Libraries and the Homeless
By Jennifer Miranda

This marginalized population has no place to reside, and safety can be an issue for many homeless people on San Diego streets.  There is not just one specific reason a person is homeless it could be from suffering from severe mental illness, drug addiction, legal issues, loss of employment or a combination of the problems noted.  Another obstacle in San Diego is the high cost of living that causes it to be extremely difficult to find affordable housing.  On a daily basis this underserved population uses the library to charge their phone, use the bathrooms and utilize the facility as a safe haven from residing on the streets.  According to the library staff at San Diego Central Library an extremely high usage of the facility is that of the homeless.  An exception to this would be when a library event is occurring.  In addition, many patrons are now using the eLibrary (digital resources) instead of visiting the brick-and-mortar library location in person (Warth).

The library recognizes that many of this underserved community are daily patrons at the library.  They have no other alternative location to go that is free.  The Central Library has had to increase their budget for security enforcement to maintain the safety of all patrons.  The library has had suicide attempts, drug overdoses and mental health crisis situations.  Unfortunately, the library has also had an increased incidents where the San Diego Police Department has had to be dispatched.  However, some of the police involvement has been on the exterior of library near homeless encampments that have appeared (Winkley).  To better serve this population the library has emulated the San Francisco Library and acquired a social worker to provide resources (Warth).

Addition of Contact Button

Contact Button - Added by Melissa Arreola

Hi friends! I went ahead and added a contact gadget to the sidebar. I feel like having the option to contact us is a great way to encourage interaction with our readers and to gather feedback about what they might want to see on our page in the future. I find this feature very useful on other webpages that I frequent, so I thought adding it to the blog would be beneficial. By entering their name, email, and message, readers can reach out to us with any questions or suggestions they may have regarding our content. 

The Role of the Library in Determining Student Success

 The Role of the Library in Determining Student Success

By Melissa Arreola

Image by M. Ikhwan Habib, courtesy of Vecteezy

What does it mean to be a successful student? Success can be measured in many ways, whether it be reaching academic goals, receiving passing grades, or obtaining a degree or diploma. Sometimes it just means feeling a sense of achievement and personal self-satisfaction. Wherever your definition of success lies – library resources can help you get there. There is an abundance of data that supports the idea of libraries contributing to student success in a major way. Let’s take a look at just how they do it.

A four-year long study done by librarians at the University of North Texas was conducted to evaluate the impact of library instruction on student outcomes. The study compared two groups of students, all of whom were enrolled in a core-level English class – one group received a one-shot library instruction session while the other group did not (Rowe, et al). Their findings concluded that there was indeed a positive correlation between attending the library session and achieving success, which in their study was defined by GPA, pass/fail status, and retention (Rowe, et al). By receiving just one instructional session, students were able to statistically outperform those who hadn’t. Knowing what the library has to offer in terms of resources as well as knowing how to access them clearly provides a measurable advantage in terms of academic achievement.

This study also highlights how important information literacy is and its impact on success rates, especially for students who come from low-income or rural areas who are unaware of the vast amount of resources libraries have to offer. As Michelle Adam said in a 2011 issue of The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education, “students benefit little from resources if they don’t know how to use them” (Adam).

While numbers and percentages can give us insight into the quantitative indicators of success, understanding personal opinions sheds light on why those numbers are what they are. Researcher Jennifer Meyer and her colleagues conducted a study with a multimethod approach to understand the factors contributing to undergraduate student success at the University of Northern Colorado. In their study, they not only looked at statistical data, they also conducted student interviews in order to tap into the minds of those who actually use the library in pursuit of their academic goals. When asked how the library contributed to their success as students, a lot of them shared similar thoughts, like how the library is perceived as a calming place to focus where distractions are limited and there are people there who can either help with tasks or provide a sense of camaraderie (Mayer, et al). Many mentioned the abundance of resources – from databases and archival materials to software packages, equipment, and access to other types of technology that they may not otherwise be able to afford (Mayer, et al). The general consensus throughout all of the interviews was that the library as a whole provides both a physical space and the resources needed for students to reach their fullest academic potential.

Libraries are known for being informational pipelines, making them a vital factor in academic success for all ages. From supporting school curriculums in grade schools and colleges, to providing beneficial access to technology and software that supplement higher learning, libraries are spaces with undeniable value. Knowing how to access and take advantage of what the library has to offer can often be a determining factor in the achievement of student success.

For more information and research studies tackling this topic, check out the links below:

Initiatives for Student Success: The Key Role of the Library

The Library's Impact on University Students' Academic Success and Learning

References:

Rowe, Jennifer, et al. “The Impact of Library Instruction on Undergraduate Student Success: A Four-Year Study.” College & Research Libraries, vol. 82, no. 1, Jan. 2021, pp. 7–18. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.ezproxy.palomar.edu/10.5860/crl.82.1.7.

Adam, Michelle. "Academic Libraries at the Heart of Student Success." The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education, vol. 21, no. 21, Aug 22, 2011, pp. 8-9. ProQuest, https://login.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login?auth=shibboleth&url=https://www.proquest.com/magazines/academic-libraries-at-heart-student-success/docview/905665379/se-2.

De Groote, Sandra. “The Library’s Impact on University Students’ Academic Success and Learning.” Uic, Oct. 2021, www.academia.edu/55984257/The_Library_s_Impact_on_University_Students_Academic_Success_and_Learning.

Habib, M. Ikhwan. “Education Knowledge concept.” Vecteezy, 27 Nov. 2022, www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/1952456-education-knowledge-concept.

Mayer, Jennifer, et al. “Undergraduate Student Success and Library Use: A Multimethod Approach.” College & Research Libraries, vol. 81, no. 3, Apr. 2020, pp. 378–98. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.ezproxy.palomar.edu/10.5860/crl.81.3.378.

Rowe, Jennifer, et al. “The Impact of Library Instruction on Undergraduate Student Success: A Four-Year Study.” College & Research Libraries, vol. 82, no. 1, Jan. 2021, pp. 7–18. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.ezproxy.palomar.edu/10.5860/crl.82.1.7.

Clarivate, Ex Libris Part Of. “Initiatives for Student Success: The Key Role of the Library.” Library Journal, www.libraryjournal.com/story/initiatives-for-student-success-the-key-role-of-the-library-lj220421.

Nancy added Wikipedia

 I added a Wikipedia gadget to our blog to make it easier for readers to search topics mentioned by the contributors. Having a Wikipedia link on the blog will be useful for anyone who wants to do more reading on the topics mentioned.

Hoping for Humanity: Libraries and the Homeless

 Hoping for Humanity: Libraries and the Homeless

By Melissa Arreola

Image by Matt Collamer

Just as libraries are so much more than their books, librarians are so much more than conduits to information. They are helpers at heart who genuinely care for the members of their communities – and that includes those experiencing homelessness. Librarians are advocates for the underserved and hold the necessary tools to make a difference. In a world where unhoused individuals experience biased dismissal, scrutiny, discrimination, and stigmatization, the library becomes a haven as well as a gateway to possibility where they can actively work on self-development, gain knowledge and skills, and simply just be.

Martha Foscarinis, director of the National Law Center for Homelessness and Poverty, uses her platform to call for empathy, saying “It’s really important for libraries to preserve one of the few remaining public sanctuaries [for the homeless] and […] to develop programs to help them” (Samuels). Many times, homeless individuals seek out the resources available at the library with the goal of improving their situation. This is often because libraries are seen as sanctuaries with equal access to social and natural support systems as well as a safe place to gather answers and information as they work towards self-growth (Aykanian). The free WiFi and computer access that libraries offer are major assets when it comes to creating resumes and seeking employment opportunities, and that’s just the beginning of what libraries can offer.

Reporter Elizabeth Segal also highlighted ways that library programming proactively supports the homeless community in a 2018 article titled “A Haven for the Homeless.” These services include hosting resource fairs that direct these individuals towards city and county support services, assisting in acquiring important documents and identifications, locating medical or veteran’s affairs facilities, helping with filling out paperwork, and pointing them in the direction of mental health care when necessary (Segal). Another step that can be taken is the incorporation of social workers into the library staff. For example, the Santa Monica Public Library in California assists many unhoused patrons and has seen firsthand the benefits of having the support of social workers in their ranks. They are key to training and informing staff on how to aid the unhoused appropriately and effectively in addition to helping with assessments and intervention when needed (Aykanian).

There are many options and avenues libraries can take to aid those who need a helping hand, but what’s most important is to lead with kindness and compassion. Although controversy exists around allowing the homeless community into public libraries for fear of disruption, shunning them only contributes to the cycle of their experiences. Unfair perceptions should not dictate their right to entire community spaces that are meant to be for all. Empathy goes a long way, especially in the lives of those experiencing crises, so we should all aim to be as understanding as we can be.

Check out these videos for some more insight into the ways libraries are helping to make a big difference in the lives of the unhoused.

DISCOVER: DC Public Library's Peer Navigator Program

Prime Focus: US Libraries on the Frontlines of Homelessness

References:

ABC News. “Prime Focus: US Libraries on the Frontlines of Homelessness.” YouTube, 5 May 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hm2AY-HtALo.

Aykanian, Amanda, et al. “Library-Based Field Placements: Meeting the Diverse Needs of Patrons, Including Those Experiencing Homelessness.” Journal of Social Work Education, vol. 56, no. 1, Jan. 2020, pp. S72–80. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.ezproxy.palomar.edu/10.1080/10437797.2020.1723757.

Collamer, Matt. “Man Holding Card With Seeking Human Kindness Text.” Unsplash, 11 Feb. 2018, unsplash.com/@breakyourboundaries4.

DC Public Library. “DISCOVER: DC Public Library’s Peer Navigator Program.” YouTube, 16 Sept. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpGdglY3dDA.

Samuels, Robert. "Advocates for libraries and affordable housing talk about ways to serve homeless (Posted 2014-06-27 02:26:24): Across the nation, education and employment programs at libraries have helped homeless patrons." The Washington Post (Online)WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post, 2014. ProQuest, https://login.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login?auth=shibboleth&url=https://www.proquest.com/blogs-podcasts-websites/advocates-libraries-affordable-housing-talk-about/docview/1540649257/se-2.

Segal, Elizabeth. “A Haven for the Homeless.” U.S. News - The Report, May 2018, pp. C10–13. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ulh&AN=129580573&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

Getting Connected: Libraries and Social Networking

Getting Connected: Libraries and Social Networking 

By Melissa Arreola

Image by OrangeCrush

Let’s face it – like it or not, social media isn’t going anywhere any time soon. And because most individuals today are equipped with smartphones and tablets with the world of information at our fingertips, the best bet is to get on board and take advantage of what it can offer.

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) is a great example of how making the most of a social network presence can expand a library’s reach within its community and far beyond. The staff at the MPL had the bright idea to participate in social media trends – using memes and pop culture parodies to engage with their followers on the library’s social media page. By capitalizing on these trends and creating fun, engaging content, the library has amassed over one hundred thousand followers on TikTok alone and has received millions of views and likes on their videos, with followers all the way in Great Britain saying they want to travel to America just to visit the library in person (Alcántra)! Their marketing also showed positive results regarding their services. After using their social networks to promote the streaming service Kanopy, the service saw its best two months of usage along with an increase in visitors and library card signups (Alcántra). Eileen Force Cahill, director of community relations and engagement at MPL, shares her thoughts on the library’s success on social media, saying “A lot of times people think of the library as a dusty place filled with books where a woman in a bun and glasses will shush you if you talk to loud. We take very seriously the opportunity to improve people’s perceptions of the library as a modern place” (Alcántra). You can click here to be taken to the MPL's TikTok account and see the kinds of content that's attracting viewers!

These methods also show great results in academic libraries as well, with Montana State University reporting that their library saw their student user community grow by 366% following the application of their social media program, along with the rate of community interaction growing by 275% (Young).

Using social networking also provides a great avenue for teaching. As leaders in information literacy, library staff can expand on these concepts and teach younger patrons how to use social media in a safe and responsible manner. The San Diego Public Library (SDPL) saw an opportunity to forge relationships with young adult patrons while also enhancing critical skill development through the launch of their digital media workforce program (Rich). In this program, youth join in 6-week training programs held at the library and grow their skills in areas such as filmmaking, marketing, and social media strategy (Rich). The best part is that once participants complete the training, they automatically earn an internship at the library and use their new expertise to create content that tells the story of the SDPL and helps grow their online audience (Rich).  

We live in an age where social media is a part of our everyday lives. These social networks provide instant connections and can be extremely beneficial for libraries that are willing to take advantage of the outreach possibilities. Designing an effective social media strategy to incorporate into your library’s marketing scheme is a practical and efficient way to promote library services, interact with patrons on a personal and humanized level, gather patron feedback, and grow your library’s community footprint.

Above is one of MPL's most popular TikTok videos, with 2.4 million views to date

References:

Alcántara, Ann-Marie. "This Local Library Is an Overnight Social-Media Sensation; The Milwaukee Public Library has garnered millions of TikTok and Instagram views; will online fame draw people to its branches?" Wall Street Journal (Online), Dec 23, 2022. ProQuest, https://login.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login?auth=shibboleth&url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/this-local-library-is-overnight-social-media/docview/2757064641/se-2?accountid=35685.

Milwaukee Public Library. “Sassy Manga Grandma.” YouTube, 18 Mar. 2024, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lyp-ZMBsWRI.

OrangeCrush. “The Complete Guide to Social Media Design.” 99designs, 29 Oct. 2021, 99designs.com/blog/marketing-advertising/social-media-design.

Rich, Hallie. “Hungry for Connection.” Library Journal, vol. 149, no. 2, Feb. 2024, pp. 12–15. EBSCOhost, https://login.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login?auth=shibboleth&url=https://search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=175003988&site=ehost-live&scope=site

Young, Scott W. H., and Doralyn Rossmann. "Building Library Community Through Social Media." Information Technology and Libraries (Online), vol. 34, no. 1, 2015, pp. 20-37. ProQuest, https://login.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login?auth=shibboleth&url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/building-library-community-through-social-media/docview/1673955637/se-2.

Beyond the Books: Libraries as Social Hubs

 Beyond the Books: Libraries as Social Hubs

By: Melissa Arreola

Roadway Reading Room at NYPL's Brooklyn Branch

In our digitally focused society, it’s easy to assume that libraries are becoming increasingly obsolete – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Although most people associate libraries with books, they have so much more to offer beyond the stacks. Programming, events, and performances bring the people of the community together in a shared space where connections can be made and nurtured. High tech makerspaces and gaming options encourage hands on activity and provide patrons the chance to meet likeminded individuals and make friends with similar hobbies. Food and beverage offerings allow patrons to break bread with one another and foster friendships. Storytimes give mothers and children an opportunity to socialize. The list goes on… making it abundantly clear that beyond the books, libraries function as valuable community social hubs.

In a 2023 article in England’s “The Big Issue”, Poet and author Joseph Coelho shared a personal take on the matter, saying “Libraries are the hearts of communities. I can’t think of any other spaces where anyone can just walk in and you can just sit and you don’t have to buy anything. You can be warm. You can get advice” (Kelly). I think that’s a great way to put it. Libraries are the hearts of communities in so many important ways. By bringing people together, libraries build up the community as a whole and promote communal wellness and growth. Joyce Higgins, a libraries and digital development manager, highlights this sentiment by saying, “Libraries are social spaces […] where people learn, share, participate, and create, where everyone is equal and welcome and where improving our shared wellbeing is at the heart of the service” (Kelly).

During the COVID pandemic, the significance and benefits of having these accessible social gathering spaces became evident. Without them, many people began to experience a deep sense of loneliness that impacted their mental and emotional health. The article “Hungry for Connection” by Hallie Rich takes a deeper look at how social connections are what help shape a person’s sense of belonging and combat feelings of isolation (Rich). She explains that connection is so vital in fact, that the United States Surgeon General’s advisory includes specific actions that community-serving institutions (like libraries) should be taking to promote togetherness, including engaging the community through social programming, and “fostering a culture of connection by modeling and highlighting heathy social engagement” (Rich). This shows that the library’s role as a social hub goes beyond fun and games – it actually helps us to stay healthy!

The New York Public Library’s handling of the COVID quarantine provides a great example of community commitment as well as the public-driven demand for these social gathering spaces. Because in-person visits were virtually non-existent, the NYPL came up with some pretty genius ideas to bring vital library services outside. They added antennas to extend WiFi, which resulted in masses of patrons gathering outside on the lawns (Jacobs). They installed elemental sheds called Roadway Reading Rooms so people could sit, study, read, and come together (Jacobs). They did what they could with what they had to satisfy the needs of their neighborhood. Regardless of the shelves being inaccessible, the library was still able to function as a social hub – and the citizens who relied on them for a sense of community were not let down.

The desire to belong is built into our very nature. And thankfully we have libraries – places where we are able to foster and cultivate that sense of belonging in so many different ways. Libraries have proven their dedication to their communities time and time again by acting as valued social hubs that at the core, use their facilities and resources to promote togetherness and connectedness. 

References:

“Roadway Reading Room.” builtbybednark.com, 2021, www.builtbybednark.com/shop-blog/roadway-reading-rooms.

Jacobs, Karrie. "Libraries Are Still People Places: [SpecialSections]." New York Times, Apr 24, 2022. ProQuest, https://login.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login?auth=shibboleth&url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/libraries-are-still-people-places/docview/2653659122/se-2.

Kelly, Laura. "‘LIBRARIES ARE THE HEARTS OF COMMUNITIES’." The Big Issue, 2 Oct. 2023, p. 20. Gale In Context: Opposing Viewpoints, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A775607882/OVIC?u=cclc_palomar&sid=bookmark-OVIC&xid=f534c5fd. Accessed 2 May 2024.

Rich, Hallie. “Hungry for Connection.” Library Journal, vol. 149, no. 2, Feb. 2024, pp. 12–15. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=175003988&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

Social Networking and Libraries

Social Networking and Libraries
By Jennifer Miranda

 

One of the first social networking platforms to launch was Myspace (King 6).  Social media has developed so that it is not only for individuals use, but also organizations such as libraries and companies. Businesses are using social media to market, promote and sale goods.  Approximately 5 billion people around the world use social media for roughly two hours daily (King 6).  We now learn about current and popular events occurring around the world instantaneously. 

However, there are also downsides regarding social media that can be detrimental to others.  The platforms have attempted to block material that is violent, sexually explicit, and discriminatory (King, 6).  Censorship is a heated issue in our country and is causing a political polarization.  I believe that if the post is not harmful to others, then they should be able to share their opinion.  That is what makes our country a democratic republic.  Some groups are stating that their posts are to educate the public about their viewpoint on issues (Foote 32).  Libraries utilize social media to fight against first amendment censorship where books are being challenged (Foote 32).