TK

–Katrina Mink, BSW/MSW, Social Work in Libraries Program Coordinator

Maya Fray-Witzer, Penn Hills Library

What was your educational and work background prior to your placement?

Prior to working with the Penn Hills Library, I obtained my BA in Psychology from Middlebury College. After graduating, I went on to work across two UPMC sleep labs, adding to my 7+ years of sleep-specific research. As I begin my MSW and MPH as the University of Pittsburgh, I hope to combine my passions for social services and public health to enhance the wellbeing of the Penn Hills community.

What unique outside experiences, personal background or special skills do you feel have prepared you for this placement?

My experience creating and teaching a variety of public speaking courses in college has prepared me to create programming that encourages individuals to be active participants in their own learning. Additionally, my experience as a ski instructor teaching clients as young as 4 years old has made me adept at working with a wide range of populations.

Why did you choose the Library Social Work Fellowship?

In my current role working out of a hospital, I’ve witnessed firsthand the limitations of standard clinical environments, particularly for servicing marginalized populations. A hospital’s secluded location and the stigma surrounding institutionalization can discourage those who really need help from seeking, or finding, it in a typical healthcare setting. In contrast, libraries act as existing community hubs that are uniquely situated to provide equitable access to resources and services in a casual and collaborative manner that addresses systemic inequalities proactively.

How can social workers help libraries serve their communities?

Although libraries have always served as a repository of knowledge, library social workers can augment their impact by ensuring that patrons connect with and understand the resources most relevant to them. Social workers, then, are like translators of a sort, helping to break down the barriers that patrons face when they attempt to access helpful information.

Christopher Alexander, CLP – East Liberty

What was your educational and work background prior to your placement?

I received a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in Literature. I have worked in the hospitality industry for the last eight years.

What unique outside experiences, personal background or special skills do you feel have prepared you for this placement?

I have volunteered for various nonprofit organizations that service neurodivergent youth. With extensive experience in restaurants and hotels, have worked closely with individuals who are refugees. I love the Spanish language and continue to speak with native Spanish speakers within my neighborhood and at work. I have personal experience as someone who has had past difficulty with healthcare in this country. I feel I am capable of servicing a diverse range of customers in the library who are seeking resources for education, housing, and healthcare with a goal of active listening and close reading of a patrons’ story and their needs.

Why did you choose the Library Social Work Fellowship?

The library was a safe space for me ever since I was a child. Librarians filled in the gaps where my family failed to provide the help I needed for both my educational and social needs. I initially graduated from University of Pittsburgh with the intention to become a teacher. I chose social work because I wanted to work directly with individuals in the pursuit of their goals for health and overall stability. The library is the essential vessel for community outreach. Historically, librarians have done so much for the marginalized and disenfranchised. Libraries are now recognizing how social workers can work closely with them to better service the community. I feel this is a great learning opportunity that will help me in becoming the best social worker I can be.

How can social workers help libraries serve their communities?

Librarians are called to service a vast amount of people in this rapid, ever-changing age of information. Social workers are able to provide service to the community in a more individualized and extensive manner. There is a limit to how much librarians are available to help those with extensive needs. Social workers can provide consistent follow up and ensure individuals’ needs are met. Additionally, social workers are essential for safety of both patrons and librarians as they are equipped with the knowledge of crisis management.

Additional comments

I am so grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to become a part of the East Liberty library community. I know I have a lot to learn and I am excited for the challenges that I may face.

Allison Podlogar, CLP – Homewood

What was your educational and work background prior to your placement?

I am a senior year undergrad social work student at Pitt. I have also done retail and shelter work!

What unique outside experiences, personal background or special skills do you feel have prepared you for this placement?

I’ve been very fortunate and have gotten to travel and see a part of every way of living. It’s given me a good open mind for seeing and meeting people where they are since I’ve seen people in similar circumstances.

Why did you choose the Library Social Work Fellowship?

I think this setting is a great place to grow and help those who don’t know where to start. It is a quiet welcoming environment with a plethora of resources.

How can social workers help libraries serve their communities?

Giving the information to the people. Libraries can be a base for help and getting knowledge and info to their communities is the best way to help!