Building an Inclusive Library contains several topics covering a range of information related to building an inclusive library. The various parts of this resource are described below.

Part 1. What is an Inclusive Library?

This section introduces definitions and concepts related to inclusive libraries. In addition to seeing how your library “stacks up” with regard to these concepts, you will also examine the composition of your community.

Part 2. Getting to Know Your Community

In this section, you will examine the demographic and other characteristics of your community and determine the characteristics of the users and non-users o your library.

Part 3. Accessibility for All

In this section, you will learn about the different types of disabilities and consider how you can make changes to the library to accommodate the needs of patrons with disabilities.

Part 4. Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can remove barriers and encourage full use of your library. In keeping with growing access to computers and the Internet, this section introduces information on software and other devices that can assist patrons with disabilities.

Part 5. Building an Inclusive Collection

This section discusses your library’s collection – the books, periodicals, CDs, videos, and so forth – and considers whether it meets the needs of all your patrons.

Part 6. Accessible Service – Staff Needs and Training

In this section, you will explore the staff training needed to support the use of your library in a more inclusive way.

Part 7. Promotion – Getting the Word Out

Another important step in building an inclusive library is getting the message out – letting the community know what great things are in store for them when they come to your library. Towards this end, this section discusses how to develop a marketing/communication plan.

The guide presents information on a variety of issues in a straightforward and practical way. At the end of the guide, you will find a Glossary and a list of resources for additional information, as well as Contact information for the Northeast Alberta Community Board for Persons with Developmental Disabilities.

The information is presented in a useful format with tips and guidelines for you to consider as you plan changes for your own library. There are case studies, planning forms, questionnaires, and places where you can write down your ideas and questions as you consider how to meet the needs of the patrons of your library.

Interspersed within each topic, you will questions titled “How does your library stack up?” These questions will help direct your thoughts on various aspects of building a more inclusive library. For example: consider the following questions:

How does your library stack up?

• When you consider your community, do you know who your current and potential library users are?
• What does your library do now to assist users with disabilities?

As you work through this resource, you will begin to develop plans for change. By making a plan that values accessibility for all, you will be helping to build a rich and diverse environment in which all library patrons all welcomed and in which inclusion is an important value of your library and community.