New Mexico State Library Foundation (New Mexico State Library)

The New Mexico State Library will work with 15 rural New Mexico libraries to develop and implement community-based social wellbeing projects. The rural libraries will receive mentoring and guidance to help them develop an understanding of post pandemic needs in their communities, using an established set of social wellbeing tools from an earlier pilot project. Coming out of a pandemic, rural libraries and the community members they serve face the challenge of reestablishing mutual support, rebuilding social connection, and strengthening resiliency. The tools prioritize community engagement and dialogue, with a focus on reaching the isolated and marginalized, as a foundation for taking action to improve wellbeing in the community. The libraries also will receive small seed grants to support wellbeing projects.