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Library presentation outlines inclusivity, accessibility and expanded services
Summary
Gwen, a library staff member, told the Los Alamos County Library Board the library follows the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read statement and is pursuing accessibility audits, a community needs assessment, expanded programming and greater language and service access.
Gwen, a library staff member, presented the library’s plan to strengthen inclusivity and accessibility at the Los Alamos County Library, telling the board the library follows the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read statement.
The presentation said the library aims to provide materials and services that represent diverse viewpoints, to include works from self-published and local producers, and to offer materials in the major languages used locally. Gwen said the library is updating collection-development practices to ensure displays and acquisitions reflect regional history and the town’s tricultural environment.
Gwen described specific accessibility measures under way: large-print and low-vision resources, accessible computer stations, an accessible-signage audit, a planned sound study to address noise, and private areas for sensitive materials. She also said staff training and onboarding have been expanded, including an onboarding-buddy program and standardized interview processes intended to promote equitable hiring.
The library is expanding nontraditional lending through a "library of things" (items listed by Gwen included thermal cameras, telescopes, a shredder and yoga kits) and said Narcan and hygiene products are available at service desks. Gwen said staff routinely highlight county and regional social services for patrons and that additional language support is included in printables and registration forms.
Gwen said the library will conduct a community needs assessment this year to guide programming choices and requested the board’s assistance in gathering community feedback; she said more details will be presented at the December meeting. On programming, Gwen said the library is shifting from presenter-style talks to a broader mix (panels, workshops, games and meetups) to reach seniors, teens and young professionals.
The presentation emphasized transparency and documentation for programs and events, and noted efforts to convert several part-time positions to more three-quarter and full-time roles over time to support staff retention.
Gwen concluded by inviting questions from the board and by asking for board participation in the upcoming needs-assessment outreach.
