2026 Core Forum

Many library workers report feeling frustrated and underprepared for the behavioral and social service challenges that increasingly arise in their daily work with the public. In response to this growing need, the [name of graduate library science program] and [name of social work program] at [local university name] collaboratively launched a graduate certificate in Social Work–Informed Library Services. The certificate is available to students in both the MLIS and MSW programs and teaches social work competencies adapted specifically for library contexts and applicable across multiple library roles.
The curriculum introduces strategies drawn from social work that support public-facing library staff, including approaches to managing and responding to crises, de-escalating agitated individuals, building effective interdisciplinary collaborations, setting boundaries, and preventing burnout and secondary trauma. The project also includes the development of freely available, on-demand, online continuing education courses to help public library workers everywhere adapt these competencies within their professional roles.
Drawing on their research and professional experience in social work and librarianship, the presenters will demonstrate how social work–informed strategies relate to traditional library services such as reference and community outreach, while also offering practical ways library leadership can reduce staff hesitancy and support this evolving model of service.