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Cuyahoga County library branches schedule food-distribution sites

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  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 10:12 GMT by Cleveland.com
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Cuyahoga County Libraries Bring Food to Those Who Need It Most

In an unprecedented move to address food insecurity in Northeast Ohio, the Cuyahoga County Public Library (CCPL) has turned its 115 branches into community food distribution sites. The initiative, announced in early November, seeks to partner with the Cuyahoga County Food Bank and local volunteers to deliver groceries to families and individuals in need. The library’s unique outreach strategy capitalizes on its longstanding role as a community hub, leveraging open hours, volunteer support, and an existing network of patrons to create a seamless distribution system.

Why Libraries Are Becoming Food Hubs

The CCPL’s decision follows a growing trend of libraries nationwide adopting social service roles beyond lending books. According to a press release from the CCPL Board, the organization identified a gap in food assistance services during the holiday season—particularly for seniors and low‑income families who often lack transportation. “Libraries are places where people come, whether they’re checking out a book or looking for a quiet spot to study,” said Library Director Maria Hernandez. “They are already trusted, accessible, and equipped to manage logistics. By converting a portion of our space into a food distribution center, we can reach people who might otherwise go hungry.”

The food distribution program is structured as a “no‑cost” pantry, meaning recipients receive groceries free of charge. The pantry’s inventory is supplied by donations from local grocery chains, farmers, and private donors, as well as from the Food Bank’s distribution network. A weekly shipment schedule—available on the CCPL website—ensures a steady flow of canned goods, fresh produce, dairy, and non‑perishable items.

Schedule and Locations

A comprehensive timetable lists the dates, times, and contact details for each branch that will host a distribution event. The first round of distributions began on November 4th, and the schedule runs through December 18th, with two events per month in each participating library. Below is a condensed version of the schedule, organized by county region:

All events are held in the library’s “Community Resource Center,” a spacious, climate‑controlled room that can accommodate up to 200 patrons. For families with children, the library offers a dedicated “Kids Corner,” where children can interact with food‑related educational activities while parents shop.

How to Receive Food

Recipients must be residents of Cuyahoga County and have a valid library card to claim a pantry item. The library’s online application system, accessible from the CCPL “Food Distribution” page, allows users to fill out a brief form indicating family size and basic eligibility information. Upon approval, a patron receives a confirmation email and a QR code that is scanned at the distribution desk. The code verifies their eligibility and automatically logs their selections in the library’s inventory system. If patrons cannot attend the scheduled event, they can request a pickup by arranging a specific time with the library’s volunteer coordinator.

Families are allowed to select up to 30 items per visit, with a maximum of five per person. Items are organized by category: “Fresh Produce,” “Dairy & Eggs,” “Canned Goods,” “Snacks & Cereals,” and “Prepared Meals.” Volunteers are on hand to help with the selection and to explain portion sizes and nutrition guidelines. For seniors, the library offers a “Senior Assistance” program where volunteers assist with carrying groceries to their cars.

Volunteer Opportunities and Funding

The success of the food distribution program hinges on a robust volunteer network. The library’s volunteer portal, linked from the “Get Involved” section on the CCPL website, lists upcoming volunteer sign‑up events. Volunteers receive training on food safety, proper handling of perishable goods, and customer service. They also learn about the library’s “Community Care” policy, which ensures a safe environment for both volunteers and patrons.

Funding for the program comes from a mix of sources. In addition to donations of food, the library has secured a grant from the Ohio State Department of Health, which covers refrigeration costs and staffing. Local businesses, including a prominent grocery chain and a chain of hardware stores, have pledged monthly food donations to sustain the pantry. The library also hosts quarterly fundraising drives, with proceeds directed toward purchasing bulk staples and maintaining the storage infrastructure.

Community Impact

Early feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. A resident who attended the Brook Park distribution expressed gratitude for the convenience, noting, “I have no car, so having the pantry right next to my library saves me a lot of trouble.” Meanwhile, the library’s head librarian, Thomas Keenan, highlighted the program’s role in building stronger community ties: “When we bring people together around a table—whether it’s a book table or a grocery table—we’re fostering a sense of belonging and support.”

The CCPL’s food distribution initiative demonstrates a model for how public institutions can creatively respond to local needs. By leveraging existing resources, volunteer networks, and partnerships with food‑bank organizations, the libraries are making tangible progress toward reducing food insecurity in Cuyahoga County. As the holiday season approaches and the need for reliable food sources rises, the library system’s commitment to service remains steadfast, proving that a book‑ish and a box of groceries can both nourish the soul.