Licensed Social Worker

At the Allen County Public Library, we believe libraries are more than places-they are vital community hubs. As one of the largest public library systems in the region, we serve patrons with a wide range of needs, including those navigating mental health challenges, housing instability, and access to essential services.

We are seeking a licensed Social Worker to serve as our Social Services Coordinator-a unique and impactful role that integrates social work directly into a public library system. This position works at both the organizational and community level, supporting patrons and staff, and building strong partnerships that extend the library's reach beyond its walls.

About the Role

The Social Services Coordinator provides leadership in identifying and addressing social service needs across the library system. You'll work directly with patrons of all ages, support staff in responding to complex situations, and collaborate with community organizations to connect individuals to critical resources.

This is a highly visible role that blends direct service, training, program development, and strategic partnership work.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess patron needs and connect individuals to community resources, including mental health, housing, substance use treatment, education, and food access
• Provide hands-on support to patrons navigating services and follow-through
• Serve as a resource and consultant to library staff during and after patron incidents
• Lead and coordinate staff training on topics such as de-escalation, homelessness, mental health, and substance use
• Build and maintain partnerships with local service providers and community organizations
• Collaborate with staff and security during situations requiring emergency response (police/EMS)
• Supervise and support social work interns
• Collect and analyze data, prepare reports, and communicate outcomes to leadership
• Contribute to the development of system-wide policies and procedures

Qualifications

Required:

• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW)
• Licensed to practice in the State of Indiana (LSW)
• Minimum of two (2) years of post-MSW experience
• Valid driver's license

Preferred:

• Experience working with children, youth, and families
• Experience supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and/or substance use disorders

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong assessment and crisis intervention/de-escalation skills
• Knowledge of local and regional social service resources
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in complex situations

Why This Role Matters

This is not a traditional social work setting. You'll meet people where they are-inside a trusted, accessible community space-and help remove barriers to stability and well-being. Your work will directly impact both individual lives and the broader community.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (starts on day 1)
• Library-paid pension plan
• Generous PTO (4 weeks vacation + 2 weeks sick leave accrual)
• Wellness Bonus
• Employee Assistance Program
• Possible relocation assistance

Work Environment

This role operates across library locations and community settings. The position requires flexibility, including occasional evening or non-traditional hours, travel between branches, and participation in community meetings and events.

Apply Today

If you are passionate about expanding access to social services and want to be part of an innovative, community-focused organization, we encourage you to apply.