Abstract

How are disabilities represented in children’s books today? What lessons can librarians, educators or policymakers learn from these experiences and perspectives in the collections and publications? This paper reviews and presents a selection of recent children’s books from the Arne Nixon Center for the Study of Children’s Literature at Fresno State as case studies to identify and explore ways to create inclusive environments in libraries for children with special needs. Children’s literatures provide an array of rich perspectives and resources that can be useful for readers including librarians who may not be familiar with these physical and mental disabilities, and the barriers that exist in society. These books also critique and challenge the stereotypes and stigmas surrounding such physical and mental disabilities, and offer ways to rethink and reframe how to foster interactions and inclusivity. The paper compliments the study by presenting lessons and best practices from children’s services librarians to promote and advocate for library outreach services to children with disabilities, and to encourage dialogue with parents, library colleagues and administrators and the community at large to bring awareness of these challenges faced by children with special needs today.

Biography

Ray Pun is the first year student success librarian at California State University, Fresno. In this role, he coordinates the first year information literacy program on campus and partners with community groups to create an inclusive library environment for all.

Lynn T. Nguyen is the Reading Machine Outreach Librarian in the County of Los Angeles Public Library. She has also served as a Children’s Services Librarian in Rosemead Library. Lynn has worked in public libraries for over 10 years.