THIS COURSE CONSISTS OF 6 ON-DEMAND MODULES:
Module 1: Finding Your Library’s Purpose in Accessible Programming: Assessment and Engagement
This foundational module will explore the “why” behind library programming and present strategies for community assessment and engagement with people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and communities. Learn how to inclusively solicit feedback and use that information to determine your library’s approach to accessible library programming to serve, support, and include disabled patrons. You will also begin to develop your library’s own community assessment plan and engagement strategies.
Module 2: Developing Sustainability through Community Partnerships
Libraries cannot be truly accessible unless they approach their work in allyship and partnership with disabled patrons and the organizations that serve them. In this module, learn about what it means to dismantle ableism, become a disability ally, and build trust with disability partners. Learn about the methodology behind OF/BY/FOR ALL and how it can be applied to community engagement. Explore examples of sustainable and inclusive library programs serving the lifespan and start a community mapping project to examine potential partnerships in your own community.
Module 3: Inclusive Library Programming for Children Ages Birth - Grade 5
In this module, learn about ways to include, support, and serve children with disabilities through targeted and inclusive library programming strategies. Examine the benefits of family-centered programming modules and gain techniques to evaluate and make existing children’s programming accessible for all. Explore best practices behind targeted programming, such as Sensory Storytime, Sensory-Friendly Movie programs, and Accessibility Hour events.
Module 4: Inclusive Library Programming for Teens in Grades 6 - 12
Growing up can be difficult for any teenager, including those teens with disabilities. This module will discuss ways that inclusive library programs for teens can support and include neurodivergent and disabled teens as they explore their own interests, independence, skill development, and friendships. This module will present examples and strategies for programming serving disabled and neurodivergent teens, including social clubs, adaptive gaming, and life skills programming.
Module 5: Inclusive Library Programming for Adults
Disabled adults deserve to be included as participatory members of their libraries and communities. In this module, we will examine best practices for making existing library programs for adults accessible to people with physical, developmental, intellectual, and communication differences. Learn about Next Chapter Book Club, an internationally recognized program model serving and supporting literacy for all abilities. You will also have the opportunity to develop your own Library Program Accessibility Checklist that can be applied to any library program, including community-wide intergenerational programs that welcome all ages and abilities.
Module 6: Accessible Marketing Strategies for Programs Serving Patrons with Disabilities
Without effective marketing strategies, your library’s programs designed for disabled patrons may not find their audience and go unattended. In this final module, learn about ways to improve the accessibility of your print and online communication to include people with disabilities. In addition, explore ways to leverage community partnerships to expand your library’s reach and increase awareness of your library. The information in this module will allow you to begin drafting a Marketing Plan to more inclusively promote your programs to disabled patrons and their communities.
Materials available April 7, 2026
On-Demand Online Course
This course is geared toward frontline and other public-facing staff.
