Virtual Social Services Fair
Columbus Metropolitan Library, Ohio
Innovation Synopsis
Amid the ongoing public health crisis and its crippling impact on our community, Columbus Metropolitan Library brought together a variety of agencies during a free two-day virtual event designed to connect library customers with the help they needed. Participants engaged with professionals in a “one-stop” virtual location to get critical help.
Challenge/Opportunity
This virtual fair was designed specifically to address the economic realities facing many in our community amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This coordinated and concentrated virtual event provided library customers and others with free assistance in applying for a variety of public benefits. The “one-stop virtual shop” program offered unprecedented ease of access to public services, in one place at one time.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Virtual Social Services Fair took place over the course of 36 hours on July 30 and 31. Customers accessed a virtual space wherein they navigated to different “booths” to connect directly with professionals, one-on-one, based on the kind of help they needed.
Additionally, staff oversaw an online chat to direct customers to help offered on a variety of pressing issues, including food access, legal aid, rent stabilization funds, childcare, job help and more.
Achieved Outcomes
Over the course of the two-day event, nearly 160 participants sought help at 56 virtual booths staffed by professionals from 54 partner agencies and organizations, including OhioMeansJobs, Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio, Human Service Chamber of Franklin County, United Way of Central Ohio and many more. The Virtual Social Services Fair program also provided an opportunity to put a spotlight on the resources, programs and services that Columbus Metropolitan Library offers as part of our Life Skills strategy.
