Residents seeking help with housing, food, financial assistance, child care, health care, employment, and other essential needs may now connect directly with trained resource navigators at the Lancaster Public Library through a new partnership between PA 211 East and the Lancaster Public Library, located at 151 N. Queen St. The initiative brings PA 211 East's resource navigation services into the library three days each week, with the goal of creating a convenient, welcoming space where neighbors can receive personalized support and connections to local services in person.

Using PA 211 East's extensive database of health and human services, resource navigators will help individuals and families identify programs and supports that may meet their needs. Staff members are also trained in homelessness diversion practices and can assist individuals experiencing housing instability with coordinated entry services.

The partnership recognizes the role libraries play as community hubs while expanding the range of support available to visitors. While library staff members provide expert assistance with information and educational resources, PA 211 East navigators offer specialized knowledge of health and human service programs throughout Lancaster County and beyond.

During the program's first week, resource navigators served 15 neighbors and provided 35 referrals to community resources. Requests ranged from tax preparation assistance and volunteer opportunities to housing support and general information about local services.

PA 211 East services are available at the Lancaster Public Library on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during regular library hours. Community members may also receive information about resources by dialing 211, texting their ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting http://www.east.pa211.org.