What is the library doing to address the issue of homelessness?

The Dallas Public Library is celebrating the first anniversary of its innovative Homeless Engagement Initiative (HEI). The first year has been a successful and rewarding experience as the library works towards increasing community awareness of homelessness and promoting the public library as a place of social inclusion.

Starting with the bi-monthly Coffee & Conversation event, where library staff and members of the homeless and housed community sit down for casual conversation over a cup of coffee, the initiative has grown to include a range of programs.   These programs positively impact the downtown Dallas community by providing creative and relevant activities including music and photography classes, a creative writing workshop, movies, games, and even a library produced podcast that gives voice to the homeless community.

The Street View Podcast is a major highlight of the initiative. It features the stories and experiences from individuals experiencing homelessness as well as interviews with different organizations that provide services to the homeless. The podcast is designed as an open forum and features a range of views and opinions on the many issues facing the homeless. Because of its unfiltered exploration of the topic, the podcast has garnered listeners from every major US metropolitan area. It has also received coverage by the Dallas Morning News, D Magazine, the Dallas Observer Blog, and Channel 33 Nightcap News.

Street View Podcast - Dallas Public Library

Providing daily one-on-one assistance, the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library also has a full time Homeless Engagement Coordinator plus two part-time staff provided through AmeriCorps.  These staff help with job applications and resumes, computer training, and facilitating access to services for the homeless, but one of the most crucial aspects of the program is  providing ongoing encouragement and support.

As the Homeless Engagement Initiative moves into its second year, the Dallas Public Library will continue to offer creative programs where all are welcome, regardless of their housing status.  Housed or experiencing homelessness, we are one community.

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