Outreach Services
The Robert Tegler Trust Outreach Service works with EPL’s most vulnerable customers to help and empower them through literacy, education, connections and social support. Some people might not access existing social services, but visit EPL knowing it’s a welcoming and friendly space. Clients of the program find social support and assistance needed to manage challenges and make lasting changes towards a better life.
Contact Us
Questions about EPL’s outreach program? Call the Outreach Team of Stanley A. Milner Library at 780-496-1057.
Outreach services are available at the revitalized Stanley A. Milner Library. Current services include:
- Individual needs assessment
- Drop-in assistance
- Resources, referrals and advocacy
- Response to needs of vulnerable persons
Background
In 2011, EPL partnered with Boyle Street Community Services to launch an outreach program when an increasing number of people were seeking refuge in the downtown branch. Initially the program was supported by the provincial Safe Communities Innovation Fund. Based on our Community-led Service Model, the program works to help and empower at-risk Edmontonians through literacy, education, connections and social support. We have also formed partnerships with the Bissell Centre and Homeward Trust to support homeless individuals in finding housing.
Some people might not access existing social services, but visit EPL knowing it’s a safe, friendly space. Clients of the program find social support and assistance needed to manage challenges and make lasting changes towards a better life. In collaboration with library staff, our outreach staff (all registered social workers) work out of the Stanley A. Milner Library (Downtown), visiting other branches as needed, but their impact reaches well beyond the Library’s walls.
Great libraries welcome everyone. EPL was awarded a 2015 American Library Association Presidential Citation for the program, and has presented both nationally and internationally on the service.
