Launch of the Library’s Veterans Resource Center: Guest Blog by LBPLF Board Director Mary Hinds
Photo: Long Beach Public Library. Senior Librarian Alana LaBeaf speaking at the opening of the Main Library’s Veterans Resource Center.
Photo: Long Beach Public Library.
A service member’s connection to the military does not end with his or her last day of active duty. After separation from service, the veteran and his or her family are connected for life to a substantial system of benefits and support. But navigating these can be a challenge. The Long Beach Public Library is now positioned to help.
On Saturday, June 9, the new Veterans Resource Center opened on the Lower Level of the Main Library. With the goal of supporting veterans and connecting them to as many services as possible, the Center is a place for veterans and their families to have questions answered and resources recommended. It offers computers and literature, as well as counseling and workshops on topics ranging from finances and wellness to employment and family needs. There are also opportunities to volunteer at the Center to help others.
Those attending the opening day ribbon cutting demonstrated the widespread support for the Library’s Center. Guests included Richard Jordan, Chief of Staff to the Board of Harbor Commissioners, Port of Long Beach; Anthony Rodriquez, CalVet Local Interagency Network Coordinator for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties; Los Angeles County Veteran Services Officer Chad Mackey, and five members of the Long Beach Veterans Commission.
The opening of the Veterans Resource Center was the culminating event of Main Library’s Book to Action program. It was made possible through a grant from the California State Library’s Veterans Connect @ The Library project.
Mary Hancock Hinds is the Dependent Spouse of Lt. Col. Steve Hinds, USMC-ret, and a long-time Board member of the Long Beach Public Library Foundation.
Photo: Long Beach Public Library. Lt. Col. Steve Hinds and wife, Mary Hinds.