A Library System's Response to the Economy

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

Repercussions of the nation’s economic downturn have hit dramatically in Minnesota’s largest county, Hennepin. With foreclosure rates climbing to 23 per 1,000 households and the unemployment rate rising to 6.9%, many people are struggling to find meaningful employment at livable wages. Despite their economic woes, business in the county’s libraries has flourished as more people use free resources to help cope with difficult economic situations. Because of this fact, the Hennepin County Library emerged as an ideal candidate to provide resources for County residents during this economic downturn. It has taken a three-pronged approach in responding to the economic crisis. First, the library worked to expand their Jobs and Small Business Centers to more libraries located in neighborhoods strongly affected by job loss and business closings. The library expanded its partnerships with Workforce Centers and other community partners to provide access to services for displaced workers through job training, job-seeking skill development, and other important resources. Additionally, the library partnered with the county’s Taxpayer Services Department and the Minnesota Home Ownership Center to offer foreclosure workshops free to the public. These workshops provide homeowners with information about what happens during foreclosures in an attempt to make the process less disruptive for the family involved. Lastly, the county established and expanded a program called “Freedom Ticket” to provide a variety of services to people released from correctional facilities such as job resource workshops, how to start a business, where to go for legal advice, shelter, and housing information. Overall, Hennepin County’s program responded to the growing needs of its populace by utilizing the library’s vast resources to meet the needs of the community. These free programs and services connect people to the resources they need to make informed decisions and live safe and productive lives. This program’s success illustrates how libraries can be a great resource to assist communities in difficult times.