Homeless Turn To Public Libraries
A lack of attention to the problem of homelessness is turning our public libraries into homeless shelters.
"[America has a] dirty little secret: our libraries have become de facto daytime shelters for the homeless -- and librarians have become de facto social workers. All because of our nation's ongoing failure to address the problems facing the homeless.
On any given day, you'll find a group of homeless regulars at the Central Library, ensconced at tables or slouched in chairs. Most of the time, they cause no problems. Sometimes, though, they ruffle the serene surface of public life. By talking loudly. Bothering other patrons. Smelling bad. Their presence typically arouses annoyance...or revulsion.
What we should feel is shame.
Social agencies and shelters are often overwhelmed, underfunded and unavailable during the day. After more than a decade of "temporary" emergency shelters, city leaders have yet to come up with a comprehensive plan for helping these lost souls."
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I can still remember the stench from a homeless guy in the library even though it was 15 years ago. I could smell him before I could see him while I was reading the newspaper. I was amazed at the odor he was giving off from 30 feet away.
All the hype and media attention years ago about the homeless disappeared after the public got tired of neverending parade of those living on the street. At least with the global warming the homeless can be a little more comfortable.