WellMed Hub aims to reduce stigma around sensitive health topics and community engagement

The Library Board of Trustees meeting held on April 8, 2025, focused on enhancing community engagement and addressing sensitive topics through library resources. A key discussion point was the importance of creating a WellMed Hub, which aims to provide self-service access to information on various subjects, including addiction and healthy aging. Board members emphasized that this initiative could help reduce stigma around discussing difficult issues by offering a broader range of topics for community members to explore.

The conversation also highlighted the significance of co-creating library collections with input from community members. This approach aims to ensure that resources reflect the needs and interests of the community, fostering a sense of ownership and relevance. Board members discussed the necessity of staff training and development to support these initiatives, noting that well-trained staff are essential for effectively guiding patrons in navigating available resources.

Additionally, the board considered the library's role in empowering community members to develop their skills. They stressed the importance of providing support while recognizing that individuals also have a responsibility to engage actively in their learning process. The meeting concluded with a commitment to refine these goals and ensure that the library remains a valuable resource for all community members.