Originally posted to the Chillicothe Gazette on July 27, 2025

Most people move through the world never thinking about what it looks like to someone else. After all, we are the main character in our own story.

It wasn’t until I had a child that I paid attention to changing tables in bathrooms, until I was on crutches that I felt the relief of an automatic door, or until I had a family member using a wheelchair that I became aware of (and incredibly thankful for) elevators and lifts. It sounds selfish, but it seems to me that it’s also human. We see the world through our own lens until something happens that pushes a shift in perspective. Each shift was an opportunity that taught me something new, not just about myself but also about the world.

Here at the library, we want to make sure we represent as many perspectives as possible. In honor of July as Disability Pride Month, we would like to share some of the things we’re working on to ensure our library spaces and offerings feel welcoming to all.

Our Main Library Annex building recently installed two adult changing tables in the north end restrooms. One table was made possible through the American Library Association’s initiative, Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities grant, and the other is thanks to the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. These changing tables are free for public use during open hours.

All our buildings are equipped with sensory bags thanks to KultureCity − a nonprofit organization on sensory accessibility and acceptance. These bags allow us to provide resources for those who may need accommodation in public spaces. Anyone managing PTSD, ADHD, or in need of sensory intervention can take advantage of noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and other useful tools while inside the library.

Our Adult and Youth Services staff plan activities with accessibility in mind. Whether it’s having fidgets on hand, scheduling a quiet space or an alternate activity to accompany a particularly loud program, or modifying the activity to suit the needs of the patron, our team is committed to listening and learning so that our offerings best reflect the community we serve. Additionally, Adult Services began hosting a monthly program specifically for all abilities. Though the activities may change, the program itself is dedicated to fostering connections, sharing resources, and having some free fun at the library.

Our Outreach Department operates our mobile library, The Bee, which you’ll see out and about at many local community events. It is wheelchair-accessible with a lift to allow patrons who cannot use the steps the ability to visit. Accessibility is a priority for this department – you will find Outreach staff stocking book lockers in more rural communities and providing home delivery services for qualifying patrons.

If you have suggestions for improving accessibility at the library, join us for a community conversation at 11:30 a.m. July 30, at the Northside Library. Even though we acknowledge we are all the main character of our own stories, we also know when we listen to others our own stories get a lot more interesting.

Sheena Brown is a pretty good listener and an Enrichment, Communications and Marketing Clerk for the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library.