Stanfield Public Library receives grant for inclusive storytime

Published 12:00 pm Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Stanfield Public Library has secured an AWS InCommunities Fund grant that the library director said will be helpful.

The money, Library Director Cecili Longhorn said, will support a community program, which focuses on families and early learners. The library operates an Inclusive Storytime, which Longhorn said is welcoming and comfortable for children and families of all abilities.

“We are using adaptive seating, various interactive story tools and crafts that use different skills and abilities that cater to different developmental skills,” she said. “Our main focus is to show children and families that libraries are a space for them.”

Longhorn said the grant supports training for staff. Also, it helps employees of the Stanfield School District, Umatilla Morrow Head Start, InterMountain Education Service District and caregivers, in partnership with Universal Design for Learning program.

“The purpose of using UDL emphasizes providing multiple ways to engage, represent and express,” she said.

In addition, with assistance from the grant, the library is using adaptive seating, interactive story time schedule, sensory tools and activities and crafts.

“We’re also giving out books and tools to families each week to help encourage families to engage in literacy building activities and reconnect in a fun and exciting way,” she said.

Longhorn, along with Deborah Burnette, an early intervention specialist with ESD, expressed a need for the inclusive storytime project to continue as years continue.

“We have seen engagement from children who typically struggle to engage in storytime. We have also seen children who don’t sit through storytime actually sit and participate,” Longhorn said.

As the library proceeds into the new year, Longhorn said she plans on continuing weekly storytime events, along with monthly game nights, Lego club and book clubs.

Toward the end of January, Longhorn also said the Stanfield Public Library will be partnering with the libraries of Umatilla and Echo to bring “Spark Joy with Shannon Huneycutt.”

“This program is the perfect kickoff at the beginning of the year. It will focus on the decluttering and organizing of your home,” she said.

In addition to the decluttering project, Longhorn also said the library will launch a community walking group when spring approaches.

Called Rural Libraries Promoting Walking and Walkability in their Rural Communities, Stanfield Public Library will be partnering with Oregon Health & Science University to promote activity in the community.

Longhorn said the library will always see a need for inclusive events to promote reading for everyone, regardless of ability. By obtaining this grant, the library can continue to promote literacy and inclusivity throughout the community.

The inclusive storytime is every Friday at noon at the Stanfield Public Library, 180 W. Coe Ave.