For Mental Health Awareness Month, LDO is spotlighting libraries that are making a difference for their patrons and communities. The Smithville Public Library is doing just that, proving once again that libraries are far more than just buildings full of books—they’re lifelines.
At the heart of Smithville Public Library’s mental health outreach is an innovative, people-first approach that’s meeting residents where they are, both physically and emotionally. Thanks to a partnership with the St. David’s Foundation and their Libraries for Health grant, the library began building bridges to support marginalized and rural residents through book clubs that doubled as safe spaces for mental health discussion. Each group—whether focused on BIPOC members, Spanish-language readers, or veterans—was co-facilitated by a social worker or psychologist. Every session opened with a “mental health minute,” and over time, what started as separate circles grew into a broader, united community of care.
“It was so well received,” says Library Director Judy Bergeron. “St. David’s noticed the impact and asked: what if we made it easier for patrons to get help by placing a peer support specialist directly in the library?” The answer, of course, was yes.
That’s when Britany Flores joined the team.
Flores, a bilingual peer support specialist shared with nearby Elgin Public Library, quickly became a trusted presence in the library. “Every day is a learning experience,” she says. “But everything I’ve been through helps me connect with people who need someone to walk with them through hard times.”
From walking alongside patrons who are navigating life after incarceration to helping someone apply for a rental unit online, Flores’ support goes beyond conversation—it’s about tangible steps and emotional grounding. “There was one woman, older and lonely, who needed to visit the Social Security office. Driving in Austin wasn’t something she could handle alone, so I took her. Just that little bit of support made all the difference.”
Housing insecurity is a major concern in the area, Bergeron notes. “Brittany has more flexibility because she’s grant-funded. She can help people apply directly, and she takes the time to listen—really listen—to what’s going on in their lives.”
Extending Mental Health Support to the Community
Beyond the library walls, the work continues. Smithville Public Library also partnered with the Smithville Community Gardens to transform an old food pantry into a multipurpose community center called the Gardens House. With a Wi-Fi hub, accessible computers, and workshops funded by a TSLAC CARES grant, the space became a sanctuary during the pandemic—and continues to be one today. Parents gather for “Garden Kids” while their toddlers play nearby, sharing stories and support.
This in turn led to “Momma Crafternoon” where the parents could experience their own support network a couple times each month. Kids and adults alike learn from each other and the giving grows—one memorable moment saw a 13-year-old teaching a senior how to embroider. “This senior went on to learn how to sew, so he could make carrying bags for walkers for the residents of our local nursing home,” Bergeron says.
There’s also Thomas, a neighbor who struggled with isolation and illness during COVID. Drawn by the activity at the Gardens House, he began participating, teaching kids how to sharpen blades and bake sourdough bread. “It’s about connection,” Bergeron says. “Every moment matters.”
As the library’s current mental health initiative wraps up at the end of the year, the focus is shifting toward sustainability. The building at the community garden needs upkeep. The city council has yet to commit to funding a permanent peer support role. And yet, the need is clear.
“A man came in recently in a total panic,” Flores recalls. “He thought he was about to lose his disability benefits because he didn’t know how to use a computer. I sat with him. We took a deep breath together. I couldn’t click the buttons for him, but I could help him navigate. Afterward, he said, ‘You saved my life.’”
What would Bergeron say to other libraries considering a similar approach?
“It’s incredibly valuable. This is work libraries are already doing—we just need to make sure our city leaders understand that. Anecdotal data shows it’s working. Our library staff feel it. Our community feels it.”
Flores agrees. “This place feels like family. I’ve never felt so supported. It’s just a blessing.”
And that’s the power of libraries–they are truly so much more than just books. They are vital hubs for community support. Watch this video to see more of Smithville Public Library’s mental health journey.
