Ruth Lilly Medical Library's Todd Grooten, licensed social worker and co-chair of the Indiana Library Federation's Mental Health Committee, was recently featured in this article about a new statewide initiative to provide mental health training for Indiana librarians. As libraries increasingly serve people experiencing mental health crises, Todd emphasizes the importance of equipping library staff with the tools to respond with awareness, confidence, and compassion while connecting patrons to appropriate resources.

Indiana librarians are increasingly serving as frontline resources for people experiencing mental health crises. The new statewide initiative will provide training to help library staff respond effectively, connect patrons to appropriate services, and recognize when emergency intervention is needed. The program, supported by a $50,000 grant, is a partnership between Mental Health America of Indiana and the Indiana Library Federation.

Congratulations, Todd, on helping lead this important effort to support Indiana libraries and their communities! We're grateful for your leadership in advancing compassionate, informed library services across Indiana and proud to see your work recognized.