The Library Engagement & Access Program (LEAP), an innovative partnership between the L.A. County Library and LACDMH, was awarded a 2026 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties. The program embeds DMH teams directly into 17 high-need library locations across Los Angeles County to provide mental health support, referrals for housing and more.
L.A. County’s public libraries are inclusive and trusted community-centered spaces and provide learning and connection to people from all walks of life. Since restarting the program in June 2025, LEAP has engaged more than 1,500 individuals, connected more than 1,000 people with essential resources and successfully placed 229 people into interim housing. Learn more about the program and its locations on the L.A. County Library website.
LEAP offers a wide range of services, including community resources information such as food pantries, showers, laundry services, CalFresh and other forms of assistance. Patrons can also receive access to health care services, self-care and wellness guidance and coping strategies for stress and daily challenges.
LEAP relaunched after Second District Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Fourth District Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn co-authored a motion to bring back a program that paused during COVID.
