👨‍💼 Free social worker services offered at these Central Florida libraries, no card required

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – They’re resources that go beyond the books on its shelves. Did you know that the Orange County Library System offers free social worker services? No library card required!

“A lot of people don’t like to tell their business, but sometimes you may need to tell them a little bit to get some help. People can’t help if you don’t open up and tell then what you need help with. The library can help you with more than you expect. I didn’t know at first,” Laverne Temple said.

Temple said she needed help finding a job to supplement her social security payments, but she had trouble navigating digital documents and online applications.

“I was embarrassed and ashamed that I couldn’t work the computers... When I had to look for jobs before, it wasn’t through a computer, it was all paperwork. Now I had to submit a resume and fill out an application online... I didn’t know how to do that,” she said.

During a visit to the South Trail Branch of the Orange County Library System, she learned from one of the staff members that there were licensed social workers on staff that could help, for free. So she made an appointment.

“I remember first meeting Thomas. He didn’t get a chance to ask questions. I came in and introduced myself and I said, ‘I’m your 10 o’clock appointment and here’s why I’m here,’” Temple said.

Laverne worked for weeks with Thomas, one of four social workers staffed by the OCLS. He helped Laverne create a resume, apply for jobs online and practice interview techniques.

But that’s not all those social workers can do. They provide one-on-one assistance and referrals for counseling, food and SNAP benefits, healthcare, immigration, housing and more.

“On any given day, we have customers who come in from all backgrounds, all different parts of life. Often when they come to us, they’re going through some sort of challenge,” Community Engagement Manager Adrian Grant said.

The social workers rotate daily, visiting several of OCLS’s 15 branches throughout Orange County.

“This is a meeting point for a lot of individuals, whether they’re steady Orange County residents or they’re passing through, or they’re looking for some type of educational opportunity that’s free,” Grant said.

After about six weeks, Temple landed a job in retail.

“I do give my social worker credit for helping me with my resume and putting applications in to try to help me find a job. When I got a job, I came back in and said, ‘thank you Thomas,’ and I thanked him,” she said.

Adrian said success stories like Laverne’s are what the program is all about.

“There’s something so touching deep down, when you know that the effort you’re putting forward to help meet somebody where they are and help them with whatever their concern is and you’re able to see the effects, not only in their progress but the gratitude. And it’s mutual,” Grant said.

Temple said she is continuing with computer classes at the South Trail Branch of the OCLS and encourages everyone to speak up and ask for help.

You don’t need a library card to access the free services with the social workers here at OCLS and some branches even offer walk-in appointments. Click HERE to schedule an appointment.

NEED FOOD ASSISTANCE? The South Trail, Chickasaw, Hiawassee, and Fairview Shores branches of OCLS offer free non-perishable, shelf-stable food boxes for kids and families every Tuesday starting at 10 a.m. Food contents may vary and the boxes are first come, first served. No library card or proof of residency is needed to pick up a box. The service is in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank and Orange County.