Racine, Wis. – In a move that strengthens community support, the Racine Public Library has added dedicated social‑services hours to its schedule. Social worker Ashley Cedeño, who has been with the library for five years, will be on site every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering one‑on‑one assistance at no cost.
Free, walk‑in help for residents
Cedeño explained that the program is designed to be a “one‑stop shop” for a range of needs. Patrons can receive guidance on finding affordable housing, obtain up‑to‑date food‑pantry listings, get referrals for mental‑health services, explore employment opportunities and even receive free bus passes. The service is open to anyone who walks through the library doors, with no appointment required.
“My passion is helping people. That’s why I went into social work,” Cedeño said. “It’s really great to work in such a community‑resource‑driven building that is here to support the community and offer these social services that, you know, sometimes are lacking in a lot of places.”
Library plans for expansion
The library is already planning further renovations to make the social‑services area more welcoming. Future goals include expanding the number of social‑worker hours and inviting partner organizations to hold informational sessions on site. These additions aim to broaden the reach of the program and ensure that more residents can benefit from the free assistance.
Local leaders have praised the initiative as a practical response to the challenges many families face. By situating social‑service support within a familiar public space, the library helps reduce barriers such as transportation and stigma, aligning with Racine’s broader commitment to family stability and community well‑being.
How to access the service
Anyone in need can simply walk into the Racine Public Library during the designated hours. No prior registration or paperwork is required. Cedeño and library staff will assess each individual’s situation and connect them with the appropriate resources, whether that means a referral to a local shelter, a list of nearby food banks or information about job‑training programs.
The program reflects a growing trend among libraries nationwide to serve as hubs for social support, recognizing that access to information often goes hand‑in‑hand with access to basic necessities. Racine’s effort underscores the value of community institutions in fostering self‑reliance and strengthening families.
Original reporting: FOX6 WITI – local news — read the source article.
