Published: Dec 29, 2022 9:01:17 AM
Updated: Dec 29, 2022 9:00:32 AM
The Peterborough Town Library received a $2,500 grant from the John and Maude Coser Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.
The grant funded the development of a series of staff trainings to learn how to better serve users of all abilities. Librarian Director Corinne Chronopoulos conducted a survey of library programming and services in 2021, recognizing the need to make libraries more inclusive and welcoming to all.
Chronopoulos met with New Hampshire agencies and leaders serving people with disabilities to learn more about how libraries can improve.
“I originally wanted to create a professional program, but after meeting Lisa Beaudoin of ABLE NH and the people at Monadnock Developmental Services, I realized that the best way to serve patrons with disabilities was to do everything I learned that applying universal design principles to the services and programs of We are grateful for that,” said Chronopoulos.
The library will use this grant to host training for staff led by Able NH, conduct a series of staff meetings to learn about the history of universal design and the Americans with Disabilities Act, and host staff requested by patrons. I purchased sensory kits and products to help me. Book Club for Temple Grandin’s new book Visual Thinking.
“We still have a lot to learn and think about, but the important thing is that we are keeping our hands and ears open to the community. We hope that if you have a particular patron or family member, you are welcome to ask us and work with us to create a library experience that works for them. All of our program marketing is now extending this reminder and we hope it helps you learn more from the community.”
In the future, we plan to develop a “Library Buddy” program that allows people who are not good at coming to the library alone to meet their “buddies.” Volunteer library buddies undergo background checks and can schedule a visit to the library to be paired with someone they want to hang out with.They can search for books, play board games, and explore the public seating areas of the library. You can chat with one of him.
For information about the library or this program, visit peterboroughtownlibrary.org, email library@peterboroughnh.gov, or call 603-924-8040.
