katrina intro TK
–Katrina Mink, BSW/MSW, Social Work in Libraries Program Coordinator
Maddie Gonzalez, CLP – Hill District
What was your educational and work background prior to your placement?
I am currently a senior at the University of Pittsburgh working towards a bachelors in Social Work. I also worked in customer service, as a swim instructor with children, and a peer mentor at the Jewish Community Center!
What unique outside experiences, personal background or special skills do you feel have prepared you for this placement?
I have been very fortunate to have traveled around and experienced many different cultures and ways of life. This has shaped my perspective on meeting people where they are at in life, and understanding different life philosophies. My work with neurodivergent children and teens navigating their transitional years has taught me valuable skills that I can apply to my work meeting with members of the library community.
Why did you choose the Library Social Work Fellowship?
I believe in the good and important work of the public library system. Libraries are valuable spaces for the community to connect, share resources, learn, and relax. I personally feel connected to the libraries, and I wanted to share in that comfort with others!
How can social workers help libraries serve their communities?
A social worker’s presence in the library is so useful for meeting people who may require assistance, but do not know where to begin. That’s what I love about being in the library! I also understand that sometimes, all people need is to chat with a member of their community. That’s what I think is most special about this program. I have the opportunity to just be available for the people around me!
McKay Brooks, Andrew Carnegie Free Library
What was your educational and work background prior to your placement?
Political science and peace and justice studies bachelor’s degree. I had interned as a legislative intern at the Utah State Legislature, and as a research assistant for the public policy institute at my university.
What unique outside experiences, personal background or special skills do you feel have prepared you for this placement?
A lot of the principles for peace building discussed in my undergraduate degree are the same principles we use in social work practice.
Why did you choose the Library Social Work Fellowship?
I was drawn to libraries as public institutions and community hubs.
How can social workers help libraries serve their communities?
Social workers help libraries more effectively meet the material needs of their patrons in addition to the higher level needs they fulfill through community activities and educational resources.