The Daviess County Public Library could become the first library in Kentucky to employ a full-time social worker. The social worker would train and support library staff, as well as refer people in need to the appropriate agencies.
The Messenger-Inquirer reports the Daviess County Public Library board approved a budget for the fiscal year starting July 1, that allocates a $37,000 starting salary for the position.
The social worker won’t provide counseling services, since they will not be working in a health-care facility. Treasurer Rodney Ellis told the paper that he’s wary of a decision that could open the library up to legal liabilities.
Board members have temporarily tabled a measure allowing them to search for candidates. If they decide against hiring a social worker, they’ll put the $37,000 into the library’s general fund.