Well Fed, Well Read: 2021 Lunch at the Library

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2022

LA County Library’s 2021 Lunch at the Library program partnered with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to provide free meals during the summer months to youth ages 18 and under in communities where children may lack access to nutritious meals outside of school. When stay-at-home orders were issued during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many families were experiencing financial stress and food insecurity, LA County Library sought out opportunities outside of traditional avenues to continue to contribute solutions to these growing needs. The Library offered both lunch and reheatable breakfast, 5 days a week for 8 weeks from June through August, in communities where more than 50% of youth qualify for free and reduced-price lunch during the school year. To ensure safe service, the Library implemented a grab-and-go procedure. To limit barriers to participation, meal pickup did not require proof of income or for children to be present. While using library locations as a safe, friendly, comfortable, and welcoming environment for community members to meet their nutritional needs, Library staff provide educational resources to customers that help children stay engaged with learning over the summer and return to school in the fall ready to learn.