Library social worker funding
Summary
The library has become the city's de facto day shelter, and librarians are fielding social-service questions they aren't trained for. The council kept the $90,000 social worker in the budget, but several members want an exit plan so the position doesn't become permanent.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 17, 2026.
Impact analysis
About $90,000 a year in total compensation, funded from the city budget after ARPA money ended.
Unhoused residents who use the library, plus library staff who get a trained professional to handle crisis situations.
Taxpayers concerned about city funding of a position the library itself says shouldn't be permanent.
Mentions & discussions (2)
City Council Workshop (Regular) - Jun 17, 2026
The library has become the city's de facto day shelter, and librarians are fielding social-service questions they aren't trained for. The council kept the $90,000 social worker in the budget, but several members want an exit plan so the position doesn't become permanent.
City Council Workshop (Regular) - Jun 10, 2026
The county won't pick up its third of the library social worker's salary, leaving the city to decide whether to fund the role. Some councilors want nonprofits or the homelessness committee to step in first.
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