How to deal with homeless

The homeless problem has been around since the first home. Not long ago, they were called bums, tramps and hobos and were run out of town on a rail. As inklings of humanity crept into society, however, some cities began buying bus tickets for its homeless population, looking to export the "problem" to other towns.

In more recent years, there have been efforts to feed them and keep them out of sight.

But we think the Salt Lake City Library has finally found the "ultimate solution." Educate homeless people, treat them with respect, and show them that, down inside, they have value.

Amid the larger controversies in Utah, a mini-controversy has surfaced at libraries. It seems homeless people have found the library to be a fine place to pass the day. During frosty days it can become a real concern. Library patrons feel intimidated by these "roving readers." Many, if not most, homeless people are mentally ill. Others struggle with substance abuse. Hygiene is often non-existent.

But rather than find a way to turn the homeless population back onto the street by instituting rules and regulations, the Salt Lake City Library has chosen to teach them about kind and courteous behavior. Librarians have taken to wearing buttons that encourage respect, civility and courtesy. The library has also opened up a dialogue with social service providers to help the staff understand and carry out their roles. The library also sees itself as a barometer for the community. If the homeless are congregating there more and more, it means more and more has to be done to address the problem in other parts of town, as well.

We applaud (quietly) the library administration for thinking outside the book. In almost every issue that tears at the fabric of society, politicians and pundits plead for there to be more education. Often, that's as far as the thinking goes, however.

It's refreshing to see the Salt Lake City Library put its time and energy into teaching. Who better to share information, after all, than professional librarians? Who better to serve as role models of proper behavior?

The stereotype of the aging librarian, hair in a bun, going from table to table whispering, "Will you please be quiet, please," is long gone. The new breed of librarian lives on the cutting edge of social change and human issues.

Others in administrative positions should emulate them.