Our Library Social Work Team is composed of the library’s licensed social worker and a team of social work interns. The social work team is available to meet one-on-one based on appointments, Tuesday - Thursday to help connect you to the services and resources that you need.
Social Services Support at the Cambridge Public Library
The Cambridge Public Library is dedicated to a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to access resources and support. Our Social Work Team is available to meet with you remotely by phone or in-person at any of our library branches.
Services We Provide
It is important to remind patrons when making an appointment that we are not experts in everything. There are times when we may not know the answer, but we will do everything within our scope to help connect patrons to the appropriate service provider. The Social Work Team acts as a bridge to connect patrons to services. Below is a list of services that we are able to provide and make referrals for:
- Benefits
- Assist with applying for MassHealth, SNAP, Cash Assistance, and Assurance Wireless
- Housing
- Assist with applying to Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) and The Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Public Housing (CHAMP)
- Empower patrons to make calls to different shelters on their own and we can assist with the first couple calls and writing a script
- Assist with housing/apartment search and provide resource guides
- Mental Health Support
- Assist with finding a therapist and assist with reaching out/writing a script
- Substance Use
- Assist patrons to make calls to either Detox or Outpatient Treatment Programs (refer out if patron is seeking inpatient support)
- Employment
- Assist with resume writing and finding job listings
- Immigration
- Refer out to specialized agencies
- Tech support
- Will assist with specific questions and will refer out to specialized agencies if looking for a class or teacher on how to use technology
- Refer out to specialized agencies
Connect with the Library Social Work Team
When you’re overwhelmed, it can be hard to know where to start. Sign up to connect with the Library Social Work Team to get ideas of next steps and find out what resources and support are available to you in the community.
To contact us please call or text (857) 259-2647 or email us at cplsocialwork@cambridgema.gov and a member of the social work team will get back to you.
Are You Experiencing a Crisis?
If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, please call the Boston Emergency Services Team (B.E.S.T.) at 1(800) 981-4357 or 911.
If you are looking for immediate support:
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233
- SAMHSA Helpline: (800) 662-4357