Social Work Interest Group

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This community is for anyone interested in learning more about social work in public libraries. The PLA Social Worker Task Force will use this space to discuss issues facing public libraries, provide a space to connect with others, generate and share best practices and resources.

  • 1.  Social Work program structure

    Posted Oct 12, 2023 10:17 AM

    Hello! We're considering some restructuring of our social work program, which currently resides in the department I manage. I'm curious how your service may be structured. Specifically, I'm wondering if anyone has a social worker in a supervisory position and how many SWs they have reporting to them, to whom the supervisor reports, and any other information you can share. Happy to talk offline, if you'd prefer. Just trying to gather some best practices. Thanks in advance! 



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    Julie Brophy
    Adult & Community Engagement Dept
    Baltimore County Public Library
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  • 2.  RE: Social Work program structure

    Posted Oct 13, 2023 08:33 AM

    Our department has a team of six, including me. I am in the supervisory role, and I report to our Chief Equity and Engagement Officer. She is over the arm that houses marketing and communications, outreach, and development. 

    Of my team of five - three have BSWs or MSWs. We are looking to hire another MSW.  Our SW2 also supervises any interns we have. 



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    Lee Patterson, LMSW
    Library Social Work Manager
    Richland Library
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