Free one-on-one service resumes for the public
MONTCLAIR, NJ (November 19, 2024)—After a pause in service, the public can once again meet one-on-one with a social worker at the Montclair Public Library. This free service can be reserved by appointment or on a walk-in, first-come-first-served basis at the Main Library.
The social worker is available:
- Tuesdays: 4-6:15 p.m. (walk-ins) and 6:30-7:15 p.m. (by appointment)
- Thursdays: 12-2 p.m. (by appointment)
- 4th Saturday of the month: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (walk-ins) and 1-1:45 p.m. (by appointment). Note: In December, it will be the 3rd Saturday instead.
Stop by to chat or ask about college information, resources for emotional development and coping skills, job assistance, and time management. Get help finding community resources, completing applications for Social Security, SNAP, Medicaid/Medicare, and other benefit programs, or getting an ID, Birth Certificate, and other vital documents. To make an appointment, visit https://montclairlibrary.libnet.info/v/assets/925 or call 973-744-0500 ext. 2286.
The social worker is funded by a generous grant from the Partners for Health Foundation, whose vision is to make our communities healthier, better places to live. The grant was awarded to the Montclair Public Library Foundation at the end of 2023.
This service was piloted from fall 2021 to spring 2023 with interns from Montclair State University’s Master of Social Work program. With funding secured for two years, the new social worker will enhance the Library’s existing efforts and connect with local agencies to address the overall health and wellness needs of the community, including its most at-risk members. The social worker will also train Library staff, develop programs addressing equity and inclusion, and oversee the continuing partnership with Montclair State University.
About the Social Worker
Margarette Ouji (they/them) began their career as a social worker over ten years ago, working with older adults and later transitioning into foster care and pediatric social work. More recently, they served as pastor at the First Lutheran Church in Montclair, fostering and building community. Now bi-vocational, Ouji is particularly excited about the vital role social workers can play in addressing systemic injustices and removing barriers while building upon the work already being done in Montclair. They are committed to fostering equitable access and strengthening the bonds within Montclair, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and has what they need to thrive. Ouji earned a B.A. in Social Work from Concordia College and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Carolina.
Download a high-resolution photo of Margarette Ouji
About the Montclair Public Library
Founded in 1893, the Montclair Public Library serves the residents of Montclair, New Jersey. It has two facilities: the Main Library at 50 South Fullerton Avenue (open seven days a week) and the Bellevue Avenue Branch at 185 Bellevue Avenue (open six days a week). In 2023, the Library saw 170,000 visits; circulated 390,000 items including books, eBooks, movies, Wi-Fi hotspots, museum passes, tools, and recreational objects; and welcomed 22,000 participants in a wide variety of programs that reflect Montclair’s energy and diversity. Visit montclairlibrary.org for hours of operation and current services.
About the Partners for Health Foundation
Partners for Health is a community-based organization that works toward a vision of thriving communities ensuring health for all. We focus our resources toward the promise of justice through policy change, advocacy, and the capacity building of nonprofit organizations. Visit partnersfdn.org for more information.