Towards Inclusive Accessibility in Libraries (TIAL)

Resources to Better Understand and Accommodate the Needs of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community

Libraries play a crucial role in fostering inclusivity and providing equal access to information and resources for all community members, including those who are deaf and hard of hearing. By fostering relationships with local deaf and hard of hearing communities, libraries can better understand their needs and preferences, ensuring that services and programs are relevant and effective.

Libraries can enhance the accessibility of their programs and services by incorporating technology that aids communication and access, such as captioned videos, assistive listening devices, and sign language interpreters for events. These adaptations demonstrate a commitment to equity and help create an environment where all patrons feel welcomed and valued.

Ultimately, prioritizing accessibility for deaf and hard of hearing individuals enriches the library experience for everyone, promoting a culture of inclusivity and understanding within the community.

Creating a Welcoming Space for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patrons at Your Library with Kathy MacMillan

We are thrilled to welcome writer, nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter, librarian, and signing storyteller, Kathy MacMillan, who will be presenting a series of five workshops on creating a welcoming space for deaf and hard of hearing patrons at your library. 

A brief description and registration links for each of Kathy's workshops can be found below:

Welcoming Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patrons to Your Library
Wednesday, January 22, 2025 | 10:00-11:30 am
Register for Welcoming Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patrons to Your Library

In this interactive overview, you’ll learn communication tips for interacting with deaf patrons, information about American Sign Language and Deaf Culture, and even some basic American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary to introduce yourself and help patrons navigate the library.

Providing Accommodations for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patrons at Your Library
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 | 10:00-11:30 am
Register for Providing Accommodations for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patrons at Your Library

This session unpacks the legal requirements for communication access under the Americans with Disabilities Act and provides a guide to effective use of accommodations such as interpreters, captioning, technology solutions, and more. We’ll also cover easy and inexpensive solutions that can be used by library staff at all levels.

Working with Sign Language Interpreters at Your Library
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | 10:00-11:30 am
Register for Working with Sign Language Interpreters at Your Library

Communicating through a third party can be stressful for everyone involved – but it doesn’t have to be that way! In this workshop, you will find out about best practices for hiring interpreters, develop an understanding of the interpreter’s role and learn how to effectively communicate through an interpreter.

Welcoming Deaf Kids and Families to Your Library
Wednesday, April 23, 2025 | 10:00-11:30 am
Register for Welcoming Deaf Kids and Families to Your Library

In this interactive overview, you’ll learn communication tips for interacting with deaf kids, teens, and parents, information about American Sign Language and Deaf Culture, best practices for program access, and even some basic ASL vocabulary to introduce yourself and help families navigate the library.

Little Hands Signing in Storytime
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 | 10:00-11:30 am
Register for Little Hands Signing in Storytime

This presentation will cover the benefits of using basic American Sign Language with all children and offer a variety of simple techniques for making your programs more fun, educational, and participative through the use of signs with audiences of all ages. Participants will leave armed with a vocabulary of very basic signs to start using right away.