Sarah Johnson is a library science educator and social worker. She joins me to explain the evolving role of public libraries in modern society.

Podcast: Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Android

Sarah highlights how libraries have transformed from quiet book repositories into vibrant community hubs addressing diverse needs, from providing Wi-Fi and e-resources to offering social services like legal aid, health information, and even showers for unhoused individuals. Sarah explains that libraries are often the last free public spaces where people can gather without needing to spend money, making them essential yet increasingly complex environments.

Sarah also shares her unique career path from social work and massage therapy to academic librarianship, emphasizing how her passion for learning and community service shaped her journey. She discusses the concept of “library social work,” which integrates social work principles into library operations to address challenges like homelessness, mental health crises, and safety concerns in public libraries. Through examples like San Francisco’s pioneering library social worker program, she illustrates how libraries can partner with community organizations to better serve patrons while supporting overburdened staff.

Highlights

  • Libraries have evolved into community hubs providing far more than books
  • Public libraries often serve as the last free public spaces accessible to everyone
  • Many librarians lack formal training in handling social issues like homelessness or mental health crises
  • Academic librarians typically require advanced degrees, unlike many public library staff
  • Public libraries provide critical resources like Wi-Fi, job search tools, and legal aid
  • E-book usage has surged, keeping libraries relevant in the digital age
  • Serendipitous browsing—discovering books by walking the stacks—is a unique joy that digital catalogs struggle to replicate
  • Libraries play vital roles during crises, such as providing resources during natural disasters or pandemics
  • Social workers in libraries help connect patrons with external services rather than solving systemic issues alone
  • San Francisco was the first U.S. city to hire a full-time library social worker in 2009
  • Library staff often experience burnout due to increasing demands and insufficient training
  • Trauma-informed care and de-escalation strategies are becoming essential skills for librarians
  • Children’s librarians emphasize physical books over e-books for developmental benefits
  • Libraries often partner with local organizations to offer tailored programs based on community needs
  • COVID-19 exacerbated challenges in public libraries, increasing chaos in some urban branches
  • Libraries are increasingly vibrant but face safety concerns due to their open-door policies
  • Modern libraries cater to diverse populations through multilingual resources and inclusive programming
  • Book banning controversies highlight the ongoing cultural significance of libraries
  • Peer navigator programs offer an alternative model for addressing patron needs without relying solely on social workers
  • Many communities invest heavily in renovating library facilities, reflecting their continued relevance
  • Academic librarianship allows professionals to combine teaching, research, and direct student engagement
  • Libraries must balance being welcoming spaces with ensuring safety for all patrons
  • Advocacy for library funding and leadership is crucial for maintaining thriving public spaces
  • Librarians Face a Crisis of Violence and Abuse (NY Times)

Follow More of Sarah Johnson’s Work

Credits

All songs licensed under Creative Commons