The Seattle Public Library system, including the Fremont Branch, has become a part of the Safe Place network in King County. As of now, all 27 branches of Seattle’s public libraries are places where youth, ages 12 to 17, can ask for help when in crisis.
Youth can approach any established Safe Place site, recognizable by a yellow diamond logo, or call 1-800-422-TEEN, to receive immediate help. A Safe Place coordinator will respond (24/7 on the hotline,) to provide the youth with resources, connect them to shelter services, or reunite them with family, when safe and appropriate.
“Joining the Safe Place network is a great way for the Library to further connect teens with the information and resources they need to be safe,” said Marcellus Turner, Seattle’s city librarian. “One of our service priorities is to reimagine how Library spaces are used, and being a Safe Place helps us expand our support to Seattle’s youth.”
The Safe Place program in King County is operated through a collaboration of Auburn Youth Resources, Friends of Youth, and Youth Care. The program is funded by the United Way of King County, and includes over 1,900 Safe Place sites throughout the county.
“We are so excited to have The Seattle Public Library joining our network of Safe Place partners,” expressed YouthCare’s Executive Director Melinda Giovengo, “Youth already see libraries as safe and trusted locations, and librarians as important community resources. This partnership will help library staff have the tools to quickly identify and assist youth in crisis and connect them to services and support effectively and efficiently.”
For more information on the Seattle Public Library, contact 206/386-4636. For more information on Safe Place, visit the National Safe Place website.