Aliquippa Library District creates new social worker role for local libraries

ALIQUIPPA ― As libraries become even more important institutions for communities across the country, Beaver County's Library System is now offering an extra helping hand for their communities throughout the week.

The Aliquippa Library District has announced the creation of a full-time library social worker who will enhance library services by assisting visitors with life needs. While created in Aliquippa, the position will have this official travel through the library system on select days to assist communities with access to housing, job searches and helping community members apply for government or health benefits.

Michael Moore, the former director of Northside Common Ministries, will fill the new role. With over 16 years of experience, the Aliquippa Library System is excited to welcome him to the new position, confident in his skills in helping people find support networks.

"Mr. Moore will be instrumental in assisting Beaver County residents with life challenges and will assist the district in creating a paradigm for library service for the twenty-first century," said Kristen Janci, director of the B.F. Jones Library and administrator of the Aliquippa Library District.

According to Janci, the social worker role will involve Moore dividing his time between the two public libraries in Beaver County, spending a full day at each library every two weeks. The social worker will also complete community assessments for each library to help expand the community-based programs offered.

Funding for the position was provided to the Aliquippa Library District through a grant from the Environmental Mitigation Community Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Aliquippa Library District creates new social worker role for local libraries