Tuesday, May 13, 2025

“The library is so much more than books”: Considerations for the design and implementation of teen digital mental health services in public libraries.

Knapp, A. A., Hersch, E., Wijaya, C., Herrera, M. A., Kruzan, K. P., Carroll, A. J., Lee, S., Baker, A., Gray, A., Harris, V., Simmons, R., Kour Sodhi, D., Hannah, N., Reddy, M., Karnik, N. S., Smith, J. D., Brown, C. H., & Mohr, D. C. (2023). “The library is so much more than books”: Considerations for the design and implementation of teen digital mental health services in public libraries. Frontiers in Digital Health, 5, 1183319. https://doi.org/10.3389/fdgth.2023.1183319

Summary: 


This study examines the potential for implementing digital mental health (DMH) services for teens in public libraries. Researchers interviewed 17 library workers at a Chicago-area library serving diverse communities to identify implementation considerations. The study found that libraries function as crucial safe spaces for marginalized teens, with library workers serving as “conduits” who guide patrons to resources. Several facilitators for implementing DMH services were identified, including strong leadership support, existing technological resources, the library’s community hub status, and cultural values emphasizing equity and antiracism. Barriers included library workers’ lack of confidence in addressing teen mental health, uncertainty about finding effective resources, community concerns about “library overreach,” and mental health stigma. The researchers concluded that public libraries are promising settings for implementing DMH services, particularly for historically underrepresented teens. They emphasized the importance of co-designing services with teens, developing protocols for high-risk concerns, and training library workers.


Opinion/Evaluation:


Overall, this study makes an important contribution to the field of digital mental health and community-based interventions. By recognizing public libraries as trusted, accessible spaces for youth, Knapp et al. highlight an innovative and socially responsible avenue for addressing teen mental health disparities. Their ongoing commitment to centering marginalized voices and fostering collaboration is particularly commendable. Public libraries across the country are implementing similar initiatives and can greatly benefit from the insights provided by this study.


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