Creating more inclusive libraries
The Libraries as community connectors project provides training, resources and mentorship to support libraries across Australia to be more inclusive of families of young children with disability or developmental delay, helping create positive and welcoming library visits. The program has expanded from a pilot to reach more libraries nationwide, supported by online training and partnerships.
Libraries as community connectors is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
Emma Memma reads “Our Library” (Auslan)
Join Emma Memma and Auslan interpreter Sue Jo Wright for a storytime about fun at the library and the love of books by acclaimed author Donna Rawlins.
Free learning opportunities
Self-paced online learning
Build your skills with short modules you can complete at your own pace. Learn how to create inclusive storytimes, support sensory needs, use different communication methods and promote your programs so families know they are welcome.
Explore our free live workshops
Join live online sessions to share ideas, ask questions and keep the momentum going. Topics include supporting children’s sensory needs and Q&A with parent peer workers. See our live workshops below.
- Supporting children’s sensory needs in libraries
This workshop helps library staff better understand children’s sensory needs and explore effective strategies to support sensory regulation during programs and activities. - Libraries community of practice
A space for library staff to connect, learn from peers and spark ideas about supporting families of children with disability or developmental delay. - Ask us anything- Inclusion for library staff
A guided Q&A with parent peer workers who share practical ways to make programs more inclusive through real-life experiences and scenarios.
For families: your voice and experiences
Getting out and about in the community helps children learn, have fun and thrive. But for families of children with disability or developmental delay, there can still be barriers to enjoying everyday outings—even as society becomes more inclusive.
Your experiences matter. Government and organisations want to hear from families like yours to understand what’s working and what could be improved. Tell us what helps and what gets in the way of enjoying your local library. Your insights guide improvements in programs and spaces so libraries work better for everyone.
Resources
Stories of change
Children’s librarian Elizabeth Khater shares how the online course and support helped transform programs for families at City of Canada Bay libraries
Exploring the Library
Ellen, Physiotherapist, talks about supporting and including families of children with disability or developmental delay at the library—and the kids share what they like most about visiting
Liora, Speech Pathologist, explains how different communication methods can support and enhance storytime for children with disability or delay.
Our book: Our Library by Donna Rawlins
Every public library in Australia received a copy of Our Library,
our children’s book, in collaboration with acclaimed author Donna Rawlins.
The book promotes inclusion in libraries in mainstream Australian children’s literature.
Media release
22 Apri 2021
New program aims to boost library experiences for children with a disability
A new two-year pilot in NSW is helping libraries become more inclusive for families of children with disability. Led by Plumtree and funded by DSS, the project invites libraries statewide to participate.
Explore our blog stories
Libraries inclusion project expands across NSW, online training program launched
Plumtree collaborates with libraries to promote inclusion
The Libraries as Community Connectors projecy received funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
Get in touch
Have a question or want to learn more?
We’d love to hear from you.
