Adaptive and Assistive Technology in the School Library

This week felt like I peeled back the smallest layer of the adaptive and assistive technology space. I basically learned that I have a lot to learn. I am new to the library media specialist role and I continue to learn this same lesson daily.

As I consider the physical spaces in this role one item we could improve on is lower shelving. This will take many years, but it is a physical way we could make the shelves more accessible to all. A Google search wasn't too successful, but I was very inspired by this beautiful space. 

Perry Sippo Branch, Stark County District Library, Canton, OH. Shelving variety, from height to display, both anchors and creates zones of activity while also encouraging community members to move though the space. CREDITS HBM Architects, architect; photo ©2022 Hanson Photographic.

image from: https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/Design-Trend-A-Shelf-Apart-Year-in-Architecture-2022

FG Library and Learning from the UK also has some beautiful low shelving. Although I don't this it will ever make its way across the pond.

image from: https://www.fglibrary.co.uk/shelving/landscape-library-shelving

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One large facet of my job is to facilitate the library assistants who are static in the libraries I travel to. Among other things, I provide professional development. As recommended in the Hopkins 2004 article I will "allocate professional development time for learning about library accessibility and assistive technology".Personally I will continue to "visit other libraries, schools and suppliers, meet with district specialists [and] attend conferences where [I] can learn more".

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This week really opened my eyes to being aware of the adaptive and assistive technology lens within all facets of this role. It should not be a separate piece of the library space but rather immersed throughout all library decisions. 

Hopkins, Janet. "School Library Accessibility: The Role of Assistive Technology" Teacher Librarian, 31., 3., February 2004.