This was a teeny tiny but very interesting discussion group of 2!
Shelley spoke about her rich experiences working to develop library outreach support for serving English Language Learners. Libraries should follow the Gates Foundation model of "finding the community leaders." These community leaders are not always obvious- they might be the bodega owner who everyone goes to for advice, or the local real estate agent who helps new families find homes and start businesses and thus serves as a liasion to the English-speaking community.
Serving children with special needs- you are serving both the child and the child's parent/caregiver. You can use local organizations, support groups, networks, to reach out. An "if you build it...." kind of program- parents of children with special needs are looking for resources and support. After pre-k age, much federal and state funding falls off to help these families. The Library can play a major role in helping to support these children and families.
Families and children of encarcerated parents- these are some of the most vulnerable and underserved children. How can libraries build partnerships with state and local agencies to support the families? See Hennepin, Multnomah, and NYPL for some examples of outreach to correctional facilities and work with the families. Boston Public Library does a father-focused program.