Storytime at Fraser Valley Library's outdoor amphitheater took place July 18. Kids were able to "eat" the alphabet during an activity.
Grand County Library District/Courtesy photo
This article was originally published by Sky-Hi News.
By Polly Gallagher, Grand County Library District executive director
Grand County Library District patrons may have noticed a few changes in both our physical and digital spaces. Using feedback from library staff, community members and local service organizations, we seek to make Grand County Library District accessible to all.
According to the American Library Association: “Access provides opportunities for everyone in the community to obtain library resources and services with minimal disruption.”
For many years now Grand County Library District has reduced barriers to access by minimizing requirements to obtain a library card and not requiring a card for use of the library, its resources while in the library or participating in programs.
In 2021, the library district dropped fines for overdue materials and removed reservation fees for meeting rooms. Looking to host a (strategy board game) Go Club? Why not check out a room, available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. HOA meetings, Zumba and game nights are just some of the many uses.
Dropping barriers was one component to access. The second component has been creating welcoming spaces.
Based upon feedback from the Grand County Library District Welcoming Environment Committee, basic items such as ensuring all doors have push button access, moving dumpsters to create closer parking spots and providing desks and chairs of varying heights are all ways we continue to build accessibility.
Library resources have been adjusted to make the collection more inviting, approachable and eye-catching. Program participants may have noted the use of microphones by presenters to help those who are hard of hearing.
Additionally, staff have undergone training regarding visual and physical workstation equipment and awareness of accommodations in our collection. Go to GCLD.org/Accessibility for more information.
While you are on the library district’s website you will notice a fresh look. We have simplified our website and given it a cleaner more modern look. To be compliant with new state guidelines regarding digital accessibility, our library has taken steps to ensure those using screen readers as well as those with vision concerns will be able navigate our site comfortably.
And finally, the library district is proud of its exterior spaces that continue to provide greater access to patrons during and outside of library hours to capitalize on views in our beautiful county. Juniper Library has easy access electric plugs by each exterior table for library use outside open hours. Based on feedback, the amphitheater at Fraser Valley Library will have some changes with varied height seating and access pathways. Kremmling has additional exterior seating on its way.
And, thanks to a Libraries Transform Communities grant, we invite you to enjoy the refreshed patio area at Granby Library. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy a sack lunch or enjoy the outdoors with high tables, low tables, sun and shade. Flora will soon be planted to tempt the five senses as we encourage patrons of all ages to smell, touch, look, feel and hear.
Grand County Library District is committed to making our libraries physically and digitally accessible, linking people to boundless opportunities.