The Rock Island Public Library is putting a spotlight on community mental health resources during Mental Health Awareness Month with funding from the American Rescue Plan Act.
Starting May 15, all Rock Island Public Library locations are offering mental health resource cards. They contain key phone numbers and a QR code. That code leads to a library website page with more community resources.
Library visitors can pick up a complimentary “Stop the Stigma” wristband, pin, and sticker. They also can check out books and materials about curbing loneliness and understanding positive mental health strategies.
ARPA funding is part of a three-year project. It supports additional programming and events to tackle mental health topics. And it creates safe spaces for encouraging communication and relationships.
Library staff are working on a new concept to be rolled out later in the year. It’s called “Comfort Carts.” The carts will be stocked with items to help abate feelings of loneliness, and offer activities that encourage positive actions and reflection.
Mental health resources were among the top five priorities in a 2022 community survey for using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. In response, the Rock Island City Council formed a stakeholder focus group. It was chaired by Second Ward alderman Randy Hurt. It identified unmet needs, potential partnerships, and programs.
Council OK’s ARPA funds
The council formally approved the use of ARPA funds for the project earlier in May. On May 20 it presented a proclamation to the Rock Island Public Library and Narratives QC to highlight the organizations’ efforts to provide mental health resources and information to the community.
Angela Campbell, Rock Island Public Library director, said the library is a natural center for the work. “Reading is, itself, a form of self-renewal and self-care that allows people of all ages to destress and unwind, and we also know how important a public library is for creating social connections through the services, resources, and events that we offer.”
Pick up the mental health cards and other items at the Rock Island Public Library Downtown, Southwest, and Watts-Midtown locations.
For more information about library events and services that encourage social connection, and referrals to area resources, please contact the Rock Island Library Reference and Information desk at 309-732-7341. Or visit the library website at www.rockislandlibrary.org.
Rock Island Public Library events are free and open to all.
