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MCBDDS helps Dayton Metro Library staff open doors for true inclusion
Helping people with developmental disabilities realize true inclusion has long been a struggle. But when MCBDDS’s Communications Director Janice Saddler Rice approached the Dayton Metro Library with a staff training proposal centered around the idea of disability and inclusion, the Library’s training manager welcomed the idea.
“The library serves the entire community, and we want everyone to feel like they have a place here,” said Kim Bishop, Dayton Metro Library Staff Development manager. “Our librarians and staff want to offer services that are inclusive to everyone.”
Bishop invited MCBDDS to present on the topic in a breakout session at the Library’s annual Staff Training Day October 19. MCBDDS Behavior Support Supervisor Amber Newman and Behavior Support Specialist Greta Hartje were featured speakers, and shared a presentation titled “Opening the Book to Opportunities for Everyone,” which focused on:
- Understanding common types of developmental disabilities (DD)
- Misconceptions associated with DD
- How to address the needs of people with DD
- Ways to include people with DD in interactions and activities
During the course of the session, Newman and Hartje gave examples of how librarians
could integrate people with developmental disabilities into existing activities at their branches.
“There is a difference between accommodation and real inclusion, and our vision as an agency
is to help people realize their dreams as full and accepted members of society,” said Rice.
“The Dayton Metro Library’s commitment to access for all patrons and continuing education for
its staff is one we applaud, and believe can be a model for agencies throughout the region.”