The Mercer County Library System (MCLS) is expanding its commitment to the community by offering free, confidential social work services that help residents navigate local, county, and state resources, access benefits, and connect with community support.
Available to everyone, MCLS’s social worker provides one-on-one appointments to help individuals understand applicable resources, complete applications for benefits and services, and identify programs that best meet their needs.
“Our libraries are so much more than just a place to borrow books,” said County Executive Dan Benson. “They’re centers of our community and trusted spaces where our residents can access a wide range of resources. The MCLS social worker is another innovative step that allows us to better connect our residents with the services they need.”
The initiative is also supported by a graduate-level intern from the Rutgers School of Social Work, expanding the library’s capacity to connect community members with resources while providing valuable hands-on training for future social workers.
Whether seeking assistance with housing, healthcare, employment, food assistance, financial resources, or other community services, patrons can receive guidance and referrals in a welcoming, supportive environment. While the service is open to all, appointments primarily focus on resources available in Mercer County.
Appointments are currently available on select days at the Lawrence Headquarters, Robbinsville, and Hightstown branches, with service coming to the Ewing Branch soon.
The library can help patrons connect with community resources and navigate available services; however, it does not provide medical care, mental health counseling, crisis intervention, or legal services. The library also cannot guarantee that services provided by outside organizations will be available at no cost.
To learn more about the service or schedule an appointment, visit resources.mcl.org/social-services.
