Overview

This 1-hour training introduces how social work–informed principles can strengthen library services and better support patrons experiencing complex or intersecting challenges. Participants explore how libraries can apply micro, mezzo, and macro strategies to respond to individual needs, design inclusive programs, and influence systems that shape community access and equity. 

 Through real-world examples, case scenarios, and practical strategies, the training highlights how library staff—across roles and settings—can integrate social work competencies into everyday interactions, partnerships, and programming. The focus remains on how support is offered, emphasizing dignity, trauma-informed engagement, and collaboration, rather than providing clinical social work services. By the end of the training, participants gain concrete tools to enhance patron wellness, strengthen community connections, and support both patrons and staff within the library environment.

Delivery Method

Asynchronous distance learning 

Course Level

This course is geared for professionals at the basic, intermediate, advanced and clinical levels.

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of this course, you will be able to:

• Differentiate micro-, mezzo-, and macro-level strategies used in library settings to support patrons experiencing complex needs. 

• Apply social work–informed competencies and engagement strategies to everyday library interactions and services. 

• Identify ways library programming, partnerships, and specialized roles can promote patron wellness and equitable access to resources. 

Accreditation

University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Provider # 1377, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 9/29/25-9/29/28. Social workers completing this course receive 1.0 general continuing education credits

Instructor

This training was developed by Dr. Beth Wahler. Dr. Wahler brings a social work lens to contemporary library challenges and offers support for libraries of all types and sizes. Although many libraries may not want or be ready to hire their own social worker, Dr. Wahler aims to make social work-informed solutions accessible for every library through individual consultation, staff training and support programs, administrative coaching, needs assessments of staff, patrons/users, or communities, and individualized program design.  

This course was designed as part of a grant funded project with the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The University of Kentucky College of Social Work and College of Communications and Information received the grant funding. Dr. Wahler is a consultant on the funded project.

 

How to Claim Credit

Completion of a pre-assessment and post-assessment 12-question knowledge check with a passing score of 70%

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Online courses cannot be cancelled, and refunds are not available.

Questions

If you have any questions regarding this course, need assistance registering for it, need accommodations, or experience any technical difficulties with completing it, please contact Christina Krantz at christina.krantz@uky.edu.

Course Created: October 8, 2026