Inclusivity and the desire to make a difference in the lives of all community members motivated the launch of Jefferson County Public Library’s (JCPL) interactive programming for adults with disabilities in 2017. This summer, Library for All expands on this inclusive measure and gets musical during the Library for All: Super Summer Music Series at the Golden Library.
The three events in the series, DIY Instruments (June 20), Instrument Petting Zoo with Swallow Hill (July 18), and Music and Science (August 15), derive from the Library’s 2018 Summer Reading Program theme – Rock the Books. Each event enhances the Summer Reading experience for participants and mirrors other events offered as part of the 2018 Summer Reading Program. This series, however, engages individuals in a safe environment uniquely tailored to whatever their range of abilities may be. The participants (with caregivers in attendance) make crafts, create art, play games, explore the library, and enjoy music.
“Library for All started from the belief that while people with disabilities are such an important part of our community, many often face limited opportunities, including opportunities to be creative and engage socially,” said Simone Groene-Nieto, Diversity and Inclusion coordinator for JCPL. “We are so excited to offer this special Library for All series this summer to engage these patrons with our wider library programming and open opportunities like these events to everyone.”
Library for All often includes craft projects, music, stories, and guest speakers. Attendees choose from three or four different stations based on their comfort and activity level. Two of the stations are more passive and self-paced, with one or two other stations providing more active, hands-on engagement. Participants go on nature walks, decorate their own magical wands and create holiday ornaments. The Golden Library emphasizes STEM activities, maker tools and the DIY spirit in their events.
"I wanted to create an opportunity for adults with disabilities to interact with Golden's DIYLab," said Golden Library Adult Librarian, Stephanie Douglas. " For example, participants have had the opportunity to operate sewing machines, make LED bracelets, and use 3D pens, a button maker and an airbrush. Staying focused on the DIY spirit and incorporating maker tools helps to make our programs a unique experience."
Doulgas spearheaded Library for All for Golden Library back in 2017 thanks in part to a Golden Civic Foundation grant. Through this grant, Douglas purchased maker tools and supplies appropriate for the program.
After its launch in Golden, Library for All became an instant success across the board. Even now, approaching the midway point of 2018, Library for All programming remains one of the top-attended adult events throughout Jefferson County Public Library, with Golden, Standley Lake, Lakewood, and now Columbine Libraries all offering monthly Library for All events.
According to Groene-Nieto, Library for All remains one of the Library’s most popular programs because it allows attendees to “express themselves in ways that work for them at the level they are at. Attendees get a lot out of events, but the staff and Library does too. It’s very fulfilling."
Discover special Rock the Books – themed Library for All programming this summer at the Golden Library!
Library for All: Super Summer Music Series:
