Bill > A07948

This bill creates a state financial aid program to place social workers in public libraries located in economically disadvantaged communities, with the goal of expanding access to social services in areas where residents need additional support. The program will provide funding for social worker salaries and benefits for up to three years, with libraries applying for awards by demonstrating community need through factors like poverty rates, English language learner concentrations, and graduation rates. Libraries must show how the social workers will enhance community building and access to services, and each library can only receive one award at a time. Social workers will provide direct services to library patrons, while a social worker supervisor at the public library system level will oversee the program. The bill recognizes libraries as safe, welcoming spaces where vulnerable community members often seek help, and aims to connect people with social services without requiring libraries to divert funding from other essential operations. The commissioner of education will determine award amounts, manage the program, and submit an annual report to the legislature detailing the program's effectiveness, including the number of people assisted and recommendations for potential expansion to other libraries statewide. The program will be implemented for three years, after which it will be automatically repealed unless renewed.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7948