Danvers Accessibility Commission plans Human Library, recaps film festival and recommends member appointment

The Town of Danvers Accessibility Commission used its March 26 meeting to recap a student film festival, advance planning for a Human Library outreach event and pursue recruitment and an appointment recommendation.

Film festival: The commission said the high-school film festival held that morning included three student entries that all received awards. JD introduced the commission’s work and summarized Section 504; Sue Donatell, a high-school social worker, provided additional context on Section 504 and the films’ themes, which included an infographic piece, a narrative film and an exploration of the psychology of people who use Section 504 accommodations. Attendance was about half the auditorium; a Q&A and informal meet-up with filmmakers followed and JD noted one filmmaker (now working at DCAT) expressed interest in filming Human Library sessions.

Human Library planning: The commission confirmed the Senior Center as the venue and discussed a tentative date of Saturday, Oct. 11, 2026 (Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend) with a morning start around 10 a.m. The format was set at about five 'books' (speakers) and light snacks. Two commission members, including Karen, volunteered as books and three slots remain. Members agreed to reach out to advocacy groups (Maggie's adult programs/EPIC group, a GALA group, an adult autism support center and Town Players) to build a candidate list. The commission set a target of June 15 to submit a formal date and payment to the Human Library organization and asked JD to follow up with the town on funding mechanisms, suggesting an informal contact with Rodney before formal submission.

Recruitment and training: Christi urged recruiting alternate members to maintain quorum as terms end; members agreed to include informational materials at public events. One member is registered for the Massachusetts Office on Disability Community Access Monitor training (April 8–9) and will report back.

Appointment recommendation: JD moved to recommend Karen as a full commission member; the motion was seconded and recorded as 4 in favor with Karen abstaining due to self-interest. JD will confirm that a letter has been sent to the appropriate town official (Jill) and will re-send if needed.

Mural update: Gardner reported on discussions with Steve Brooks (AAM 15) about a potential student-created mural at Maple Square; tenant consent and the Freight House redevelopment timeline (May/June 2026) were noted, and Gardner said Maple Square occupancy stands at roughly 60% market-rate and 90% affordable units.

What’s next: The commission will continue outreach to advocacy organizations for the Human Library, aim to meet the June 15 logistical deadline, and follow up on recruitment and training items at the next meeting.