Libraries for the Homeless: Revisited

The temperature today was reported to be in the upper ninety degrees in Houston, Texas, which was cool, compared to the last few days of temperatures over one hundred and three degrees.

Source: Abiiba Howell

The high temperatures may be the last thing that Ted Weisgal, an advocate for libraries to be available for the homeless, wants to hear about. Weisgal, Co-Founder of Leisure Learning Unlimited, believes that more can be done on  the part of the libraries and cities to help eradicate the homeless shelter issue.

Source: Abiiba Howell

     
                                                       
Because of the piercing emperatures, the Star of Hope shelter has seen a much higher number of people who are homeless seeking refuge. According to Marilyn Fountain, Director of Communications for the shelter, the homeless need help and we (the public and the shelter)can provide the help that they need.

The shelter spokesperson expressed empathy while discussing the emotions

Source: Abiiba Howell

Source: Abiiba Howell

experienced by the homeless when they have to seek shelter or assistance.

Source: Abiiba Howell

Since my report months ago, the National Alliance to End Homelessness stated, in the July, 2011 Conference on Ending Homelessness,"despite waning state and local assistance, rising need among vulnerable families, and challenges created by new programs and changing rules, this community has demonstrated its willingness to grab opportunities, use the best possible practices, and serve people who have been hit hardest and whose unmet needs are most severe."

The subject of allowing homeless people access to libraries has been discussed

long before M. Vocino referred to the
                                                Source: Abiiba Howell

Source: Abiiba Howell

homeless patron as "the problem patron" in 1976. (Wilson Library Journal, 50 (5)372-373).

Though the debate continues as to whether the decline in library usage should open the door for the homeless population,  cities, such as Houston, are opting to renovate libraries; it remains to be seen as to whether the homeless will benefit.