Building More Inclusive Libraries for Patrons with Disabilities
At every conference I attend, I hope to leave with at least one idea I can realistically adapt and implement at my own library. At PLA 2026, I found that inspiration in my very first session: *”Creating Inclusive Collections for Patrons with Disabilities.”*
Presenter Courtney Walker, founder of Libraries for All, shared how her experience as a school librarian led her to rethink traditional picture book collections for students with disabilities. She noticed that many students were not engaging with standard picture books, often returning them unread or damaged. In some cases, families stopped checking out books altogether.
Seeking a solution, Walker adapted a resource commonly used in classrooms: laminated books enhanced with sensory and interactive elements. By modifying these materials for library use and creating durable books with touch-and-feel components, she found that students with disabilities engaged more actively with stories and enjoyed more positive and equitable reading experiences.
Walker now works as a consultant through Libraries for All and collaborated with fellow presenters Janet Cox and Maggie Fox of Plano Public Library (PPL) in Texas to develop a full collection of adapted books. Their team selected popular picture books, organized volunteer workshops to create adapted versions, trained staff to support the collection, and developed cataloging practices for these unique materials.
Each adapted book is housed in a clear backpack containing all accompanying pieces and materials. Before formally launching the collection, PPL introduced the books through adapted storytimes and created promotional videos featuring both staff and patron testimonials. The result was a thoughtful, accessible collection designed to meet patrons where they are.
For librarians interested in creating their own adapted collections, Walker’s book, *Adapted Book Library Collections: A Guide to Building Accessible Resources for Patrons with Disabilities*, provides practical guidance and additional resources.
Accessibility was also the focus of another memorable session, *”Libraries Connecting Adults with Intellectual Disabilities to the Community.”* As someone who recently launched programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), I was eager to learn from presenters Sarah Brinkerhoff of Salt Lake County Library and Agnes Rita of Murrieta Public Library.
Both presenters emphasized the importance of community integration for adults with IDD and highlighted the unique role libraries can play as welcoming third spaces. Brinkerhoff recommended beginning by connecting with local organizations that serve adults with IDD to learn about community interests, identify barriers, and better understand how libraries can create positive experiences.
At Salt Lake County Library, Brinkerhoff oversees All Ability drop-in programs held regularly across multiple branches, along with take-home activity kits. Promotional materials clearly communicate that programs are designed for adults and teens with intellectual disabilities while remaining open and welcoming to all participants. Activities include art, STEM, music, community presentations, and other hands-on experiences.
Brinkerhoff also shared several valuable resources for librarians interested in expanding inclusive programming, including Programming Librarian Interest Group, Project ENABLE, and the Library Programming for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Facebook group.
At Murrieta Public Library, Rita’s Library for All programs focus on meaningful community engagement. Programming includes fire safety presentations with the local fire department, service projects such as assembling care packages for military personnel and first responders, bingo, themed celebrations, art activities, STEM programs, and guest presenters.
What struck me most about both libraries’ approaches was their commitment to creating programs that are intentionally inclusive while remaining open to everyone. Rather than treating accessibility as a separate service, they have woven it into the fabric of community engagement.
As I continue developing programs for patrons of all abilities at my own library, I know I’ll return to the ideas, resources, and examples shared in these sessions. Conferences often leave us energized with new possibilities, but the best sessions provide practical strategies we can bring home and use to make our libraries more welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for everyone.
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