Turning the Page: Legler Library Offers Mental Health Services in Chicago’s Disinvested Communities

In Chicago’s West Garfield Park neighborhood, the Henry E. Legler Library is now offering mental health services to a community that has been impacted by disinvestment and high crime rates. Originally opened in 1920, the library has transformed into a space where residents can seek help and feel heard.

Licensed counselor Jordan Henderson from the Chicago Department of Public Health meets with West Garfield Park residents weekly in the library’s study room. Henderson believes that providing mental health services in a library setting is a unique opportunity to reach the community in a familiar and accessible location. He offers counseling services every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., accepting both walk-ins and referrals from others.

Since starting at Legler Library nearly a month ago, Henderson has seen about two dozen people seeking his help. He believes that there is a significant need for mental health services in the community and hopes to increase his presence there to serve more individuals who are in need of support. This innovative approach to providing mental health services in a local library eliminates barriers that individuals may face in seeking help.

Experts view the access to mental health services at a local library as crucial in breaking the cycle of violence in communities like West Garfield Park. Kelly Carroll of the Institute for Non-Violence Chicago emphasizes the importance of being able to easily connect with mental health support within the community without the need for appointments or extensive planning.

As part of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s mental health expansion strategy, the Department of Public Health is exploring potential co-locations in other libraries to further increase access to vital mental health services in underserved communities. This initiative aims to address the mental health needs of residents who have faced the challenges of disinvestment and high crime rates.

The provision of mental health services at Legler Library is an example of how public institutions can adapt to meet the changing needs of their communities