Looking for the Intersection: Public Libraries, Adult Literacy and Homelessness

Homelessness is a problem which has proven resistant to both short-term solutions and to efforts to address root causes. Illiteracy may be a major factor, yet few studies have addressed how a library\u27s mission to promote reading intersects with the informational needs of adults experiencing homelessness. An understanding of literacy as more than a set of reading skills may help to guide librarians who wish to fully implement ALA\u27s standard of facilitating access to information for all, including marginalized patrons and those who not read well. As public libraries respond to questions about their continued relevance in a digital age, an understanding of how libraries can contribute to solutions to community social needs, including homelessness, may help to broaden community support for more extensive and more inclusive library programming