The Central Indianapolis Library is teaming up with CHIP, the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention to help homeless patrons.
Brian Jones is homeless. He uses the library to work on his resume and to learn.
“Everybody's asking for computer skills for jobs and to get used to them through the library is a plus,” Jones said.
Andrea DeMink with the Pour House says many homeless use the library.
“It's sort of an even playing field for everyone. It doesn't really care what your socio-economic background is or what you drive or don't drive or what job you have. It's a place that offers the same accessibility to services no matter what your background is.”
The library is allowing agencies to use a third floor room and offer services there.
It’s something DeMink says will be helpful.
“We will be able to address people's needs, their concerns, and for them to have a more well rounded approach to moving forward and out of the situation that they’re in because we'll be able to offer a one-stop shop,” DeMink said.
Tim Joyce with CHIP says, “The whole community benefits. Everyone's life gets just a little bit better. You feel a little more connected to individuals.”
Jones is feeling that connection, “To come in here use the library's facilities. Read books and use computers and just feel normal.”
Library officials are hopeful that the program will continue to grow and more services will be offered out of the third floor room.
