The pandemic put a spotlight on digital disparities that have long existed. When mental and behavioral health clinics adjusted to tele-health appointments, the most vulnerable clients lacked the needed technology and space. In some cases, concerns around safety and confidentiality when communicating from home were an issue. They were unable to have a meaningful exchange with their case worker or clinician. With the space, technology and convenient location, DML committed to work with area providers to create a solution.

In a short period of time, staff came together to make this a success. The Information Technology Department secured the needed technology, Main Library Patron Services confirmed private meeting room space and coordinated a disinfecting/cleaning schedule to accommodate COVID-19 concerns, and External Relations coordinated the partnerships in order to connect to as many provider organizations as possible. The overall cost was minimal, including a new laptop and dedicated landline, staff labor for setup and printing costs.

Four service providers scheduled up to five appointments each day, resulting in 20 tele-health appointments each week that wouldn’t otherwise have been possible. Peer counselors (e.g., AA sponsors) scheduled in-person sessions at the library before/after the tele-health appointments. Partners were pleased with the ease of access and appointment attendance. Based on the success, DML is in discussion to co-locate peer advocates from Goodwill Easter Seals at select branch locations in the new year.

Click here to learn more about this initiative from a library news article.