Reference, Instruction, and Outreach (RIO)

This meeting was in person at CDLC.

All types of libraries have begun to address the economic and social needs of their communities including areas like food insecurity.  the group discussed some of the needs being addressed and how libraries are doing it. 

The Southern Adirondack Library System's Farm-2-Library program was discussed. Food is donated by local growers and distributed through the participating public libraries. Supplies tend to vary due to growing seasons, and spoilage can be an issue (a refrigerator is provided to participating libraries). Links for further information:

https://programminglibrarian.org/programs/farm-2-library

https://salsblog.sals.edu/outreach/

Other programs:

http://foodnotbombs.net/

https://www.capitalroots.org/squash-hunger/

https://www.comfortfoodcommunity.org/

Individual library partnerships with local food banks and academic library partnerships were also discussed.