Practicing Inclusivity

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

Practicing Inclusivity is an initiative to make Durham County Library a more welcoming and accessible environment for individuals with special needs, their families, friends, and caregivers. To achieve these goals, the library has offered specialized training to staff, created more inclusive spaces, and significantly increased inclusive programming at the library. The initiative centers on the needs of the whole person, whether adapting programs, spaces, technologies, or resources to meet people’s needs. In 2018, Durham County Library was awarded funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the State Library of North Carolina, a division of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (IMLS grant number LS-00-19-0034-19) to implement the project, which was renewed for a second year in 2019. Sensory elements are now at all library locations, including bubble walls at five libraries. Inclusive programs have included a Neurodiversity Book Club, sensory-friendly programs, and a semi-permanent sensory room at one library location. Additionally, staff training has resulted in increased interest and expertise on the part of library staff to create a welcoming and accessible environment for people with special needs.