Libraries Without Borders

Library outreach - connecticut state library: in 2024, lwb collaborated with the connecticut state library to host a series of workshops on the topic of reimagining library outreach and access. This included twelve total sessions covering ten different topics over the course of nine months. The trainings provided library staff from around the state with strategies, tools, and frameworks to expand their reach and impact within their own communities. Using their own library and local data, participants had the opportunity to evaluate barriers to access within their communities and reimagine their outreach strategy utilizing their existing assets. Fayette county public library: in 2024, lwb partnered with fayette county public library to conduct local and national research on best practices to expand the effectiveness of their bookmobile and explore options to implement courier services. School-library partnerships: in 2024, lwb launched a national initiative, collaborating with public libraries and school districts across the u. S. To expand library usage for underserved youth and families. In each partnership, lwb is working directly with local libraries and schools to identify specific barriers preventing students and families from using library resources.

Puerto rico library directory - in 2024, lwb began working with libraries across puerto rico to create a centralized, digital directory that identifies the resources and services that libraries offer. This project will break down barriers to library access by increasing awareness of the resources and services offered by puerto rico's libraries. It will result in improved utilization of library services, particularly amongst underserved communities, contributing to increased rates of basic and digital literacy.

Baltimore crown - lwb expanded its work within baltimore in partnership with the black mental health alliance to create the baltimore crown project, which will increase mental health resource access within trusted community spaces; specifically, local barbershops and salons across baltimore city. The project will provide training for shop and salon staff in supporting clients and directing them to relevant community resources. It will also offer staff an opportunity to receive free mental health check-ins, connect community members directly to local resource offerings, and provide opportunities for community conversations around mental health related topics.

General program - in 2024, lwb expanded its strategy to partner with library systems around the country to identify and remove barriers preventing people from accessing their freely available resources and to, ultimately, expand library reach. Throughout 2024, lwb worked on several key partnerships built around this model.