ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Rochester Public Library wants to help connect library patrons to any social services they might need.

The Phillis Wheatley Library now has a library resource social services desk that will be open two days a week to help connect anyone with food resources, housing, legal assistance and even employment services. A social services intern will be there to assist. Dr. Rose Nichols started the program a year ago at the Maplewood Community Library.

"We do know our communities and do try to work with what they need," said Jennifer Smathers, associate director of the Monroe County Library System. "We also recognize that there is a digital divide. A lot of folks do not have access to the Internet here at the library we give you access to the Internet. For a lot of these social programs, you have to start there so this person can help guide you in the right direction and while you’re here at the library you are able to get online and follow up."

The social services help desk is available at the Phillis Wheatley Library Mondays and Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and at the Maplewood Library Tuesdays and Thursdays 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.