Outreach Services
The Robert Tegler Trust Outreach Service works with EPL’s most vulnerable customers to help and empower them through literacy, education, connections and social support. Some people might not access existing social services, but visit EPL knowing it’s a welcoming and friendly space. Clients of the program find social support and assistance needed to manage challenges and make lasting changes towards a better life.
Contact Us
Questions about EPL’s outreach program? Call the Outreach Team of Stanley A. Milner Library at 780-496-1057.
About Outreach at EPL
Outreach services are available at the Stanley A. Milner Library. Current services include:
- Individual needs assessment
- Drop-in assistance
- Resources, referrals and advocacy
- Response to the needs of vulnerable persons
Background
In 2011, EPL partnered with Boyle Street Community Services to launch an outreach program as an increasing number of people sought refuge at the downtown branch. Initially, the program was supported by the provincial Safe Communities Innovation Fund. Based on our Community-led Service Model, the program works to help and empower at-risk Edmontonians through literacy, education, connections and social support. We have also formed partnerships with the Bissell Centre and Homeward Trust to support homeless individuals in finding housing.
Some people might not access existing social services, but visit EPL knowing it’s a safe, friendly space. Clients of the program find the social support and assistance needed to manage challenges and make lasting changes towards a better life. In collaboration with library staff, our outreach staff (all registered social workers) work out of the Stanley A. Milner Library (Downtown), visiting other branches as needed, but their impact reaches well beyond the Library’s walls.
Great libraries welcome everyone. EPL was awarded a 2015 American Library Association Presidential Citation for the program, and has presented both nationally and internationally on the service.
Outreach Resources
Outreach - Resources
24-Hour Distress Line
Alberta 211
24-Hour Distress Line
311 Edmonton
A Story of Support, Trust and New Beginnings
Paul knew exactly what he wanted. "I want to make it — because if I don't, there's no life for me." What he needed was someone who could help him get there.
That person was Hilary, one of Edmonton Public Library's Outreach Social Workers. She looked at everything he was facing — no ID, no income, no doctor, and a tangle of legal barriers — and said: "If we stick together and just keep coming back, we'll sort each thing through." And they did — meeting with judges, navigating healthcare, untangling paperwork, week after week — until Paul's life looked completely different.
This is their story.