Public Library Staff as Community Health Partners: Training Program Design and Evaluation
Morgan AU, D’Alonzo BA, Dupuis R, et al. Public Library Staff as Community Health Partners: Training Program Design and Evaluation. Health Promotion Practice. May 2018;19(3):361-368.
The study aimed to equip library staff with the skills to recognize, engage, and refer vulnerable patrons to appropriate resources. A training curriculum was developed based on community needs and included topics such as homelessness, mental health, and immigration. Participants reported significant increases in comfort, confidence, and preparedness after the training. The study highlights the potential for public libraries to play a more active role in improving population health by addressing the social and health needs of their patrons.