You Belong Here - Community Project
Libraries unite people. We not only seek to provide resources to our patrons but we also hope to provide a sense of belonging and safety for those who walk through our doors. This year's conference committee sought a community service partner with similar goals and found that in Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse, a domestic violence organization located in the South Suburbs of Chicago, that offers services for victims of domestic violence and accepts clients regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or age. As we work with patrons from all walks of life, it is very likely we will encounter someone that has directly or indirectly been impacted by domestic violence. Join us in October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, as we partner with Anew at the ILA Annual Conference 2025 to provide information to library staff that will hopefully improve and enhance how you see domestic violence in your community and its impact on all those we serve.
Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse is a safe place to get help.
The mission of Anew is to provide comprehensive, coordinated services to families in which domestic violence exists without imposing any one solution. They provide caring and confidential help to victims of domestic violence. Their professional counselors and advocates understand the dynamics of domestic violence and help clients identify and choose options in their life situations.
Anew has an extensive presence in the community. Staff members are active on numerous committees and associations on the local, regional and state levels. Anew has networking agreements with area police departments, other social service agencies, two area hospitals, and one clinic. Anew regularly works with Prairie State College, South Suburban College, Governors State University and over 20 elementary, junior high schools and high schools.
Monetary donations are always welcome. Please visit Anew’s website to learn what items are in the highest need and additional donations.
How can you help?
- Engage with our community service partner, Anew, by visiting their table and interacting with staff that welcome your questions regarding domestic violence issues in your library. They will be prepared to offer suggestions and support as you navigate the unique challenges in your library community.
- Anew will also accept donations that can be dropped off at their table during conference hours. They are eager to accept toiletries and/or financial donations. Please visit Anew’s website to learn what items are in the highest need and additional donations. Checks can be written directly to “Anew”
- Attend a session at the conference with Susan Soda, the Community Education Program Manager at Anew, titled: Partnering in Prevention: Addressing Domestic Violence in Our Communities.
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