Professional Group Study

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

San Diego County Library (SDCL) makes every effort to help those who have limited resources improve their lives. Library service innovations are homegrown, replicable, and rely on flourishing partnerships. One such innovation is the Professional Group Study program that has taken place at the El Cajon Branch since 2010 through a partnership with San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency and its Welfare-to-Work contractor, Professional Consulting Group (PCG). This program allows refugees to receive their Welfare-to-Work benefits through studying to recertify in their chosen profession. The library provides a safe and comfortable location for study, and ensures that the refugees receive credit for their hours. Professional Group Study has given more than 140 physicians, engineers, architects, dentists, veterinarians, and other professionals an opportunity to exchange class time for time spent in the library, studying and working toward U.S. licensing exams, instead of taking up valuable space in classes they don't need. SDCL recently expanded this program to include an additional branch in Rancho San Diego, broadening the reach for the program and making space at the table for people in need.