Lincoln Township Public Library (LTPL) is delighted to announce that it has been awarded an $81,00 grant to establish mobile legal self-help services throughout the community and provide two dedicated self-help stations inside the library. This transformative project aims to enhance access to justice and empower individuals with vital legal resources.
The grant, generously provided by the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO), will enable LTPL to procure and deploy a library van equipped with a Library staff person who is a self-help navigator, plus resources, and technology to reach underserved populations throughout communities.
LTPL staff will be trained to be Michigan Legal Help Navigators. Navigators are non-lawyers who assist self-help center visitors using the Michigan Legal Help website and provide other appropriate assistance. They do not give legal advice, but instead provide access to legal information and Do-It-Yourself court forms to individuals in Michigan who are representing themselves in court or need information about legal topics.
The mobile legal self-help service will provide guidance and support on a wide range of legal issues, including housing, employment, immigration, family law, and more. By partnering with local legal aid organizations, community centers, and advocacy groups, LTPL aims to maximize the impact of this initiative and ensure that individuals receive the assistance they require.
The Library will launch two self-help stations at the Library and the mobile legal self-help service in May 2024. Further details about upcoming locations and events will be announced soon. If you would like the Lincoln Township Public Library’s Legal Help van at your organization or event please contact services@lincolnlib.org or 269-429-9575.
