In this interview, we’ll hear from Liana Hunt, Social Work Intern at the Somerville Public Library. Liana will fill us in about her role at the library, highlights of the internship, and advice for public libraries interested in hosting a social work internship.
Tell us about your role as a social work intern at the Somerville Public Library (SPL).
At the SPL, I primarily serve as a resource navigator and referral source for patrons in a wide variety of areas. The most common are housing support, food resources, immigration-related services, or health insurance.
I conduct an intake-style needs assessment where I evaluate patrons’ areas of need and begin connecting them with relevant resources. I also help patrons fill out applications for local, state, and federal programs.
Throughout this process, I make sure to provide patrons with a supportive and empathetic space while discussing their current challenges. Additionally, I provide all these services in both English and Spanish and have access to interpreter services for all other languages.
What did you enjoy the most about your library social work internship?
I’ve really enjoyed the fact that our program serves as a low barrier and front facing access point for all patrons. This has allowed me to practice at the community level and connect with the diverse population of patrons that use all Somerville library locations.
I’ve also enjoyed getting to learn and grow alongside the other awesome members of the team, Jake and Ava.
Tell us about a peak moment, highlight, or special project from your internship.
A highlight of the internship was the opportunity to contribute to the citywide Resident Resource Guide that was recently developed for all residents of Somerville. Helping to put together and finalize this comprehensive guide allowed me to extend my reach of support beyond library patrons and into the entire city, promoting greater awareness and accessibility to services.
What challenges did you encounter during your internship and how did you navigate them?
The biggest challenge was becoming familiar with the great number of resources available to patrons, understanding what each offers, and learning the eligibility criteria for each. The amount of services felt overwhelming at first, but with practice and time, navigation and referrals now feel instinctual.
What insights would you offer to libraries interested in hosting a social work internship?
Libraries who are willing and able to offer social services and interns would be able to expand their support network for their patrons and further align with the core values of librarianship. Adding a social work intern would enhance the experience for patrons while creating a real impact in their community.
Interview with Liana Hunt, Library Social Work Intern, Somerville Public Library, Social Work Graduate Student, Boston College
Interviewed by Michelle Eberle, Consultant, Massachusetts Library System
