Danvers Accessibility Commission schedules Human Library for Oct. 17, reviews fee and lineup

The Danvers Accessibility Commission discussed planning details for a Human Library event slated for Oct. 17, 2026 at the Senior Center.

JD reported that the Human Library organization quoted a $499 licensing fee, which appears to reflect a private-institution price tier; he said he will contact an organizer named Ida to confirm the correct rate for a public commission and will prepare a funding proposal in case additional funds are needed beyond an anticipated $500 Friends of Diversity grant. JD noted he may have selected "other" for organization type on the application, which could have triggered the higher fee.

The commission confirmed approximately five to six books: JD (quadriplegic), Karen, Christa (recovery center), a veteran-community contact (name not yet captured), Christi's contact (ally parent of a trans teen) and a suggested contact, Dr. Djoko, to represent immigrant experiences. Members agreed the lineup is diverse and not themed.

Planning tools and timeline were shared: Christi offered a spreadsheet template for tracking books and contacts and a planning timeline through October; books will receive roughly one hour of training and commissioners who serve as librarians (not as books) will also be trained. Final cadence and end time will be set in a later meeting once licensing materials are confirmed.

JD will follow up with Ida on pricing and submit a funding proposal if necessary. The event will be added to the town calendar as a hold with a start time of 10:00 AM on Oct. 17.