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Compassion Over Conflict: Responding to Patron Concerns About Unhoused Library Users
Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
Category: MLA Connect Webinar

MLA Connect Webinars 2024

Compassion Over Conflict: Responding to Patron Concerns About Unhoused Library Users

A man in a coat and hat sits in front of a brick wall holding out a cup. A woman has stopped to put something in the cut. Text reads: Compassion Over Conflict: Responding to Patron Concerns About Unhoused Library Users 11:00 AM June 10, 2025.June 10, 2025
10:00 - 11:00 AM

MLA Connect Exploration: Keynote discussions with field leaders exploring the most pressing questions for our field today and into the future.

Libraries are spaces for all members of the community, including those who are experiencing homelessness. However, library staff are sometimes confronted with difficult situations when patrons express discomfort or concerns about the presence of unhoused individuals. This session will equip library workers with the tools and strategies to navigate these difficult conversations while maintaining a supportive and inclusive environment for all patrons, and how libraries can proactively create policies and resources that support unhoused patrons.

Speaker

Margaret Ann Paauw headshot Margaret Ann Paauw
Eastern Michigan University

Dr. Margaret Ann Paauw is an Assistant Professor at Eastern Michigan University, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and author. Dr. Paauw has been practicing social work since 2012, working mainly with people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity and serious mental illness. Dr. Paauw worked as a library social worker for the Chicago Public Library, was an active member of the Public Library Association’s Library Social Work Taskforce, facilitated the library social work direct service call, and co-authored A Trauma Informed Framework for Supporting Patrons. Dr. Paauw has consulted on library social work partnerships and provided trauma-informed and de-escalation trainings to libraries across the country. Dr. Paauw’s main area of research has been on the efficacy of library social work partnerships, building the body of research contributing to evidence for this practice.

 

Registration Rates


Member $25
Nonmember $50

 

View Recording at
MLA Connect on Demand

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Cancellation

Cancellations for MLA online and virtual events must be received in writing by e-mail no later than five (5) business days prior to the program in order to qualify for a refund. Within five (5) business days of the event, no refund will be issued. Registrations received within five (5) days of the program are not eligible for a refund. No-shows will be invoiced. A $10.00 processing fee will be applied to refunds for MLA Connect webinars.


Contact: [email protected]



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