Public Library-Based Social Work Field Placements: Guidance for Public Libraries Planning to Become a Social Work Practicum Site

Authors

Elizabeth A. Wahler, University of North Carolina at CharlotteFollow
Jacob D. Ressler, Indiana University School of Social WorkFollow
Sarah C. Johnson, CUNY Hunter CollegeFollow
Colleen Rortvedt, Appleton Public LibraryFollow
Tasha Saecker, Appleton Public LibraryFollow
John Helling, Indianapolis Public LibraryFollow
Michael A. Williams, Indianapolis Public LibraryFollow
Danielle Hoover, Indiana University School of Social WorkFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2021

Abstract

Public libraries are increasingly faced with patron psychosocial needs, including mental health problems, substance use, homelessness, or poverty-related needs. Since library staff are often not trained to address these needs, many are choosing to host on-site social work practicum students to provide information and referrals for patrons presenting with psychosocial needs. However, little existing guidance is available about initiating a social work practicum placement, which can leave libraries unprepared and often “reinventing the wheel”. This manuscript provides guidance on the steps that should be considered by libraries intending to host their first social work practicum student.