Children with special needs at the library

I wonder how many parents are sitting at home right now with a child with extra support needs. They may know that the library offers programs for children, but think that their child, for whatever reason, would not fit in. To these parents I would like to say: please call or visit you local library and talk with the children's librarian to find out what the library has to offer. This conversation can be the beginning of a rewarding relationship with the library. Working together, parents and librarians can make that visit to the library a satisfying outing for everyone.

Over the last three years, many library staff have had training to help them better serve children with special needs. With the help of a grant from the South Ontario Library Service, Toronto Public Library was able to put together a Storytime Tips Guide for librarians, caregivers, and parents. A short video shows how library storytimes are easily adapted and gives a peek at a sample program.