Beyond the Stacks: Social Work, Libraries, and Community Care with Dr. Beth Wahler

In this episode of The Socially Engaged Podcast, we speak with Dr. Beth Wahler, social worker, researcher, educator, and consultant, about her groundbreaking work helping libraries address complex community and staff challenges through social work informed solutions. Dr. Wahler shares her experience as an academic leader, her international research journey, and why research, needs assessments, and evaluation are essential tools for effective community practice. She also discusses strategies for reducing staff stress and trauma, developing strong library leadership, and encouraging social workers to embrace research and consulting as impactful career paths.