1. Christy Orquera May 24, 2016 An Independent Study: Public Library Services for Veterans in Nassau County

2. I began this independent study in August 2015. I began forming the idea in January 2015 Goal: to learn more about the relationship, outreach, services and programming for veterans through Nassau County libraries.

3. 4 of 52 libraries were hosting events Port Washington Oyster Bay Plainedge Williston Park

4. Veterans’ responses about their relationship with their library VETERAN A— “ I only used the library for computer access before I had my own computer.” I haven’t used the public library in many years though. VETERAN B —“I do not know if my public library offers any services or events, but I would like resume help, job interview coaching, learn how to start my own business. I’d like if the library would host local veteran groups or serve as a meeting space.” Lives in Ronkonkoma, NY

5. Vet responses cont. VETERAN C —lives near a military base. She does not know if her local public offers less to veterans because there is a base nearby. She will check. VETERAN D —does not use the library, ever. Charlotte, NC VETERAN E —doesn’t use the library for anything and prefers if veteran agencies host vet-related services. VETERAN F —never considered libraries would offer services to veterans. She never made the connection until I asked this question.

6. Vet responses cont. VETERAN G —is a Marine Corps recruiter in Hempstead, NY. He is on active duty, although his wife is now a veteran, living near Roanoke, VA. He said he thinks libraries should host local gathering for veterans, socials once a month for local veterans to network and share what their needs are. He thinks libraries could be a central point to pool veteran resources and talents to see how veterans can be serve in their local communities. He would like to see more programming in general at the library because he thinks libraries are “ground zero” in every community.

7. THINGS THE LIBRARY COULD HOST Job interview coaching Resume conversion help Learning how to start own business Serve as a meeting place Writing workshops, publishing clinics

8. Librarians say… No money for veteran programming No staffing for veteran outreach Let VA and other vet agencies handle services and programming Not sustainable