Adaptive Books: Expanding Access Through Hands-On Design
There were many sessions I was excited to attend at the 2026 Public Library Association conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, but I was particularly interested in those focused on disability and accessibility. The very first session I attended immediately captured my attention. Courtney Walker, founder and principal consultant of Libraries for All LLC; Maggie Fox, Programming Manager at Plano Public Library; and Janet Cox, Library Technical Services Manager at Plano Public Library, presented on a unique collection item: adaptive books.
Adaptive books begin as standard picture books or children’s nonfiction titles. Staff unbind the books, laminate the pages, and rebind them. They then add sensory elements to parts of the illustrations, such as pom-poms for polka dots or yarn for hair. The new binding and lamination protect the books from damage and make them easier to clean. This is especially helpful for patrons with disabilities who may have difficulty handling traditional materials. The added sensory elements enhance the reading experience and encourage all readers, especially those with disabilities, to engage more deeply with the story.
Walker, Fox, and Cox shared practical tips for creating adaptive books. The goal is to enhance the reading experience without altering the original content. The full text and structure of the book must remain intact, and staff should avoid obscuring words or removing pages. They also emphasized being intentional with sensory additions. Adding too many elements without a clear connection to the story can overwhelm or confuse readers. Instead, they recommended a balance of two to four sensory elements per page.
Fox and Cox also discussed how Plano Public Library introduced adaptive books into their system and offered suggestions for other libraries. Funding can come from a variety of sources, including Friends of the Library groups, school PTAs, partnerships with local businesses, grants, or disability-focused organizations. To create the books, they recommended hosting workshops where staff or volunteers can assemble materials under the guidance of a designated lead. These sessions include an overview of the purpose of adaptive books, step-by-step instructions, and examples for reference.
Once completed, adaptive books can be tested with patrons during programs such as sensory storytimes before being added to the collection. The presenters recommended displaying them prominently on accessible shelving, ideally forward-facing to attract attention. Each book can be stored in a clear plastic bag with simple instructions for care. If a sensory piece becomes detached, patrons can place it in the bag for staff to repair. Maintenance is straightforward, typically requiring only reattachment with glue.
At the end of the session, attendees were given laminated pages, craft supplies, and glue dots to create their own adaptive book pages. Walker also shared additional resources, including a guide available through her website. This session left me inspired, and I am excited to explore how adaptive books might be introduced in my own library system.
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