Northeast DuPage Special Recreation Association (NEDSRA)’s summer campers and counselors visited Addison Public Library on Tuesday, July 25 for an extra special experience. Through a partnership between the library and the PAWsitive Therapy Troupe, campers were able to read with a registered therapy dog named Anela.
NEDSRA campers have taken field trips to the library nearly weekly throughout the summer to enjoy stories, songs, and activities. The collaboration aims to help the children become better acquainted with the building and staff to make the library setting more comfortable. The Library staff has taken webinars and trainings focused on inclusivity and programming for children with autism, and have actively been involved in the Special Needs and Inclusive Library Services networking group.
The library’s Children’s Specialists have worked closely with NEDSRA for guidance on what processes and materials will best accommodate their students. As a result of the collaboration, the library has introduced manipulatives, sensory bins, and sensory tours to assist and aid patrons with coping skills.
Sensory Tours are scheduled on select Saturday mornings when children and their families can explore the library in a way that best fits them. During the tour, Children’s Specialist Mr. Omar, introduces the children to different staff members, highlights different noises that are often heard in the building, and explores all the materials. The next tour will take place on Saturday, August 5 at 9:15 a.m. Registered patrons receive a detailed account of the tour and the opportunity for any additional accommodations needed.
For more information, call 630-458-3334 or visit addisonlibrary.org.
