Hello All, If your library wants to work on DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) issues, consider a focus on making library services more accessible for those with disabilities. Up to 25% of community members have a disability that affect their:

  *   Vision
  *   Movement
  *   Thinking
  *   Remembering
  *   Learning
  *   Communicating
  *   Hearing
  *   Mental health
  *   Social relationships

That is a large segment of your community who may be experiencing obstacles accessing the information and services they need from the library.

Think about the barriers for those with impairments and disabilities in your library and check out Project ENABLE https://projectenable.syr.edu/  which provides free library staff training to raise awareness and share ideas on how to better serve this community population. The program offers several learning modules which the opportunity to earn a certificate. Topics include:

  *   Disability awareness
  *   Disability law & policy
  *   Creating an accessible library
  *   Planning inclusive programs
  *   Assistive technology in libraries
  *   Targeting autism in libraries

Just create an account to access the modules. There is also a resource list, as well as a blog and a newsletter to share ideas. This would be a great staff development training. Check it out. Deb


Deborah A. Clark, MLIS
Library Management Specialist
Maine State Library
(207)233-2193
E-mail: [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>

"Great Libraries Build Strong Communities"