Is your library dreaming of hiring a social worker? In this interview, we’ll hear from Jake Savage, the Somerville Public Library’s Social Worker, about his experiences, challenges, and advice for libraries interested in hiring a social worker. Jake is a statewide leader in sharing his library social work expertise with libraries at Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) and Massachusetts Library System (MLS) programs and events. The MBLC and MLS are very grateful for his generosity in sharing his skills and guidance to help expand library social work in Massachusetts.
Tell us about the work you do as a social worker at the Somerville Public Library (SPL).
My work primarily falls into three areas.
First, I provide direct support to patrons through needs assessments, resource navigation, and application and referral assistance.
Second, I collaborate with other city departments and community organizations across Somerville to bring programming and resources directly to the library (e.g. Know Your Rights trainings with the Office of Immigrant Affairs, MBTA reduced fare pass enrollment).
And finally, I provide staff support through trainings, incident debriefings, and assistance developing trauma-informed policies and practices.
What do you find most meaningful and satisfying about your work at the library?
I enjoy the dynamic nature of the job, with lots of variety from day to day and an opportunity to support the community at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. I also love that I get to practice social work in a true community hub!
As a Somerville resident, it’s nice to support my community at a beloved local institution.
Tell us about a peak experience, highlight, or special project.
Last year, I collaborated with folks from across Somerville to bring P’alante: Stories Moving Somerville Forward to the libraries. This community art project highlighted the stories of local immigrant residents through portraits displayed in our libraries and in a short film.
The project was made possible by lots of people across the community pitching in a little bit (a local photographer shooting portraits, Somerville Media Center filming and editing the video, Office of Immigrant Affairs providing translation of materials, and several city departments helping fund the project).
We held a gallery opening event at the library with food, live music, and dancing — a beautiful moment of light and joy to combat the fear and exclusion many immigrants in our community have been facing.
What challenges do you encounter at the library and how did you navigate them?
I encounter many different kinds of challenges at various levels (e.g. behavioral issues with a specific patron, internal policy questions, higher level systemic barriers). Rather than address any one challenge specifically, I would say that the key for me to navigating challenges in general has been to build out a support network.
From leadership and colleagues at the library to social work interns on my team to other providers in Somerville to my external clinical supervisor, I know I have people to turn to for support when challenges arise, regardless of the specifics.
What advice would you provide to a library interested to hire a library social worker?
Take the leap! It’s a small but growing field, with libraries across the country creating social work programs specific to their own communities’ needs.
There was definitely a steep learning curve at first to determine the best fit for Somerville, but there are other library social workers in the state (and country) who can provide support and guidance.
In many communities, the library is a logical place for people to access social work services, and these programs add value for community members and library staff alike.
Anything else you would like to share?
Reach out with any questions! I’m happy to chat with any library folks interested in this line of work.
Interview with Jake Savage, LICSW, Library Social Worker, Somerville Public Library
Interviewed by Michelle Eberle, Consultant, Massachusetts Library System
