Libraries and the Homeless

Libraries have often been a refuge for the homeless.

Maybe it's a natural disaster.
Maybe someone is out of work and out of luck.
Maybe it's drug addiction or alcoholism.
Maybe it's just for the day--while the significant other/parent/authority figure cools off.
Perhaps someone is playing hookey.

Whatever the reason, public libraries are cool in the summer, warm in the winter. They've got bathrooms.
Sometimes they have vending machines.
Sometimes the librarians are cool.

Sometimes other patrons complain.
Sometimes staff can't do their work effectively.
Sometimes the needs of the homeless are overwhelming.

This blog is part of a class assignment, to repackage information regarding a special population and library services. I'll be reviewing a few articles and looking at challenges and solutions.