Specifications include, but are not limited to:' This position has three specific areas of focus: (1) to help facilitate wrap around services for vulnerable patrons and residents by serving as a coordinator between the library and other human services departments. (2) to guide library staff in the appropriate development of a safe, supportive environment for such patrons and residents; and (3) to aid in advancement of programs/partnerships that would directly benefit such patrons and residents to include partnership with local school of social work to develop library as a practicum placement site. The contracted social worker will develop best practices for better fulfilling our mission of serving as an inclusive institution. By establishing effective conduits of resource sharing to enhance wraparound services for vulnerable populations, all Town departments will see improvements in communicating services, responding to public needs, and assisting one another within our unique core missions. Public care and safety will become better balanced to meet both the immediate needs and long-term concerns of vulnerable patrons. This means that the Hamden Police and Fire departments will become more of a partner with the library and other human services departments; rather, than our go to response team. Nature and Duties of Work This position provides guidance and leadership to the library and its partners in working with vulnerable or at-risk individuals who are affected by mental health issues or addictions, live in poverty, are housing challenge, and/or experience marginalization. Issues presented to this position may be varied and complex and require a great degree of discretion. The Social Worker supplies information and guidance to employees on serving vulnerable populations. The Social Worker is responsible for working with community organizations and community members to develop collaborative connections to address the needs of patrons and potential patrons who face barriers to library service. This position works with library staff in de-escalating difficult situations. This will include ongoing training with staff that involves trauma-based, whole person concepts. When available the Social Worker will assess risk and evaluate threats posed by patrons who exhibit challenging behaviors, including risks that range from direct verbal abusive behavior, verbal, or physical threats to more indirect threats (such as threats of legal action).