Residents will now have easier access to assistance resources, thanks to the creation of a new position at the Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library. The role is designed to guide patrons and marginalized community members toward opportunities and services which could be of benefit.
Cheri Tinney, Executive Director of Elizabethton/Carter County United Way, has come aboard as the full time Community Resource Specialist, though she will retain part time responsibilities with United Way.
She said the addition of this position is much-needed and very progressive for this area.
“You usually see a position like this in a big city, so we are a model for the region by having it,” said Tinney.
Some of the homeless patrons need assistance finding food or medical services, she said. In this position, Tinney will direct them to the appropriate agencies, coordinate volunteers and develop programs to meet community needs.
The first major project will be completing a year-long needs assessment of Carter County to best target social factors and assist those applying for grants by providing current data. Tinney said she welcomes feedback from stakeholders and the community.
Library Director Renita Barksdale said Tinney’s background teaching classes at Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) will contribute to her role at the library. She will launch a college preparation course for sophomores, juniors and seniors, a well as teaching online banking classes for senior citizens.
Through the senior employee project, which helps place senior citizens in part-time jobs, Tinney will coordinate the schedules of two new, part-time senior employees. These positions are paid through the First Tennessee Human Resource Agency as a way to help provide employees for small service agencies who may not be able to afford additional staff. Tinney said two of her United Way partners gained experience through this program.
Expanding the adult literature and language sections will also fall under Tinney’s umbrella of responsibilities.
When library clerk Bernie Weese was promoted to Patron Service Supervisor, Barksdale reclassified the position to Community Resource Specialist.
The library will also be offering free tax prep courses at the beginning of February by partnering with Milligan College and ACFCU.
Overall, the addition of Tinney’s position means the library now has a full staff. Tinney said this makes it possible for staff members to regain focus on projects that were put on hold and to bring back treasured groups like the book club.
She said Donny Brock, a recent intern, began efforts to help the library expand efforts to assist residents through an attempted launch of a regional resource manual. Though he did not complete the manual, Tinney said, “We have carried on what he started here.”