Access a Social Worker

Library Social Worker

The Somerville Public Library Social Work Program is dedicated to increasing equity in the community by providing access to information, resources, and supports for SPL patrons. 

The Library Social Worker can provide support and assistance with many needs, including:

  • Benefits eligibility and applications (e.g. SNAP, cash assistance, SSI/SSDI) 
  • Food resources
  • Health insurance (e.g. MassHealth/Medicaid, Health Connector)
  • Employment and education resources
  • Housing and homelessness (e.g. public housing applications, shelter resources)
  • Resources for immigrants and refugees
  • Health and mental healthcare resources
  • LGBTQ+ resources
  • Referrals to other programs (e.g. mental health counseling, substance use treatment)
  • ...and more!

The Library Social Worker is available to meet with patrons during drop-in hours (no appointment needed) and scheduled one-on-one appointments at all three SPL Branch locations. All appointments are confidential, and free for SPL patrons!

Schedule Beginning January 2025:

  • Mondays:
    • Drop-in hours from 2-5 pm at West Branch (40 College Ave)
  • Tuesdays:
    • One-on-one appointments from 9-11:30 am at West Branch (40 College Ave)
    • Drop-in hours from 2-5 pm at the Central Library (79 Highland Ave)
  • Wednesdays: 
    • Drop-in hours from 9-11 am at East Branch (115 Broadway)
  • Thursdays:
    • One-on-one appointments from 9-11:30 am at the Central Library (79 Highland Ave)

To schedule a one-on-one appointment, please use the following link:
https://cal.com/splsocialworker 

Not sure where to start?
Email splsocialworker@somervillema.gov with any questions and we can help point you in the right direction.

¡Ofrecemos nuestros servicios y consultas en español!

Speak a language other than English or Spanish? Our social worker has access to interpreters!

Note: the Library Social Worker does NOT provide therapy or long-term case management, but can help refer patrons for these services if necessary.

Meet the Library Social Worker

Jake Savage, LICSW (he/him/his) is a Somerville resident who loves the library! He is passionate about increasing equity in our community through advocacy, programming, and access to resources and information. He is excited for the opportunity to connect with library patrons, and to connect them to supports that will help them thrive. He also loves to read, hike, and solve crossword puzzles!