Library Adds Two Social Workers to the Staff

Baltimore County Public Library is excited to welcome two new social workers to our staff:

Barb Elgin will cover several eastside branches:

• North Point
• Parkville-Carney
• Perry Hall
• Rosedale
• Sollers Point
• White Marsh

Val Greisman will cover several westside branches:

• Arbutus
• Catonsville
• Lansdowne
• Pikesville
• Randallstown
• Woodlawn

Before they start their open house hours, we want to help you get to know them.

Get to Know Barb and Val

Barb: Hello. This is my second stint with Baltimore County Public Library. I first worked here about 40 years ago when my aunt was a librarian. I have since traveled the United States, stopping in places like California and Florida, but I’m excited to call Maryland home again. It’s true what they say about things coming back around. I also have a serious passion for animals. I volunteered at a dog rescue, I have two rescue Chihuahuas and am a self-admitted cat lady.

Val: Hi. I’m new to the social worker crowd, graduating with my Masters of Social Work (MSW) in May. I have a passion to help people and am excited to dive right in. In my free time, you’ll probably find me cuddling my rescue dog, baking bread or spending time with family (we all live in the same neighborhood, so we see a lot of each other).

1. What made you want to be a social worker?

Barb: A teacher at Towson University encouraged me to get my MSW instead of pursuing a doctorate degree. It has worked in my favor, as it has allowed me to go into business for myself as a psychotherapist, a business I still run to this day. I consider myself a generalist, but have dipped my toe in a little of everything—from counseling active seniors and LGBTQs to matchmaking. I even met the founder of Grindr at an online dating conference and ”Saturday Night Live” star Kate McKinnon emceed one of my cruise ship speed dating events before she was famous! I am also a feeler, which is a good trait to have in the social worker trade.

Val: I was actually studying science at Loyola University when the pandemic sent us all home. It gave me time to reflect on my next moves. I realized I loved helping people and that I should pursue my MSW. During my master’s, my customers were primarily those who needed support after incarceration or those dealing with human trafficking, but I am excited to work with all types of cases.

2. What drew you to the Library?

Barb: Well, like I said, this is round two. Having sampled many workplace cultures over the years, I can share that libraries and librarians are cool places and people to "hang out your shingle." In addition, for someone at the latter stages of her career, the excellent job benefits here don't hurt. Baltimore County Public Library is filled with good-hearted people, and being part of that is good for body, mind and soul.

Val: Once I graduated in the spring and returned to Baltimore County, I decided to get a library card. When I was on the website learning more on that process, I found the job opening and thought it could be a good fit. When I met with clients while getting my master’s in Philadelphia, we often met at the library because it’s a great central location for so many people and it’s a welcoming place to be. I also love the casework aspect of it.

3. Share a random fact about yourselves.

Barb: I was in love with pickleball before the sport became the sensation it currently is. I even helped found Baltimore County White Marsh Recreation's Charm City Pickleball! It’s fun and a great form of exercise. My next move is to try pickleball in virtual reality so I can still get a workout in even if it’s rainy or cold outside.

Val: I absolutely love traveling! I have been to 22 countries so far, including a six-month stay in Greece. I left when my visa ran out! During my time there, I would help refugees, which also sparked an interest in social work. 

4. What would you like to say to the people in our community?

Barb: One thing I've really liked about being a social worker is that I’ve had the opportunity to work with people from all walks and stages of life. While I can definitely help customers with what I call the real "nut's 'n' bolts" of life, such as housing, food stamps and job assistance, I can also help them with larger projects and transitions, like divorce, grieving the loss of a loved one and career changes. So, there’s a place for you here…just stop by and say hi.

Val: I am very excited to work with you. If you’re ever at one of the westside branches, make sure you stop by and say hi. I look forward to seeing familiar faces!

Learn More

Our social workers are available for one-on-one appointments and can answer questions and find resources for a variety of topics, including food stamps, mental health, parenting resources, housing and substance abuse. Learn more about their hours and services.