Homeless Turn To Public Libraries

"[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."