Library Summit on Social Cohesion: Presenters

Together We Thrive: Libraries as Catalysts for Social Cohesion

In collaboration with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) and Simmons University School of Library and Information Science, the Massachusetts Library System (MLS) was pleased to host the Library Summit on Social Cohesion on April 11, 2025. 

This guide includes the presenters' slides, resources to learn more about libraries and social cohesion, and four videos featuring libraries who excel at fostering social cohesion in their communities.

Presenters

• Sandra Harris, Co-founder and Co-lead, Massachusetts Coalition to Build Community and End Loneliness
• Beth Wahler, Social Work Consultant with Libraries, Co-Host, Surviving the Stacks podcast, Author, Creating a Person-Centered Library: Best Practices for Supporting High-Needs Patrons
• Noah Lenstra, Director of Let's Move in Libraries and Author of Healthy Living at the Library