As part of its National Safe Place Week (March 15−21) celebration, Seattle Public Library (SPL), with its 27 locations, was officially named a Safe Place on March 16. This designation recognizes SPL as a place where youth ages 12–17 can ask for help when in crisis. SPL joins a network of agencies and organizations providing over 1,900 designated Safe Place sites throughout the county, including Seattle Parks and Recreation’s community centers, Metro Transit buses, King County Library System, and YMCA facilities. City librarian Marcellus Turner believes that this new initiative aligns with the library’s mission. "Joining the Safe Place network is a great way for the library to further connect teens with the information and resources they need to be safe," said Turner in a press release. "One of our service priorities is to reimagine how library spaces are used, and being a Safe Place helps us expand our support to Seattle's youth." Young adults can approach any established Safe Place site, recognizable by a yellow diamond logo, or call 1-800-422-TEEN to receive immediate help. A Safe Place coordinator will respond 24/7, providing resources, connecting the young person to shelter services, or reuniting them with family when safe and appropriate. “We are delighted to learn The Seattle Public Library is now a Safe Place site partner,” said Laurie Jackson, President & CEO of National Safe Place Network. “We know youth spend a lot of their time in libraries and oftentimes, youth who feel they have no place to go will enter libraries to use computers and access information. Thanks to Seattle Public Library, young people can go to any of the 27 library branches and get connected to immediate help and safety.” The Safe Place program is operated through a collaboration of Auburn Youth Resources, Friends of Youth, and YouthCare, and is funded by the United Way of King County. YouthCare's executive director Melinda Giovengo shared the organization’s enthusiasm for the new collaboration. "We are so excited to have The Seattle Public Library joining our network of Safe Place partners," she shared. "Youth already see libraries as safe and trusted locations, and librarians as important community resources. This partnership will help library staff have the tools to quickly identify and assist youth in crisis and connect them to services and support effectively and efficiently."