Library seeks accessibility input

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Adult community members with intellectual and physical disabilities are invited to share their ideas for how Roseburg Public Library can better serve them in two upcoming sessions.

Community conversations are scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 3, and 6 p.m. Thursday, June 19. RSVP is required at least 24 hours before the events by contacting Library Director Kris Wiley at kwiley@roseburgor.gov or 541-492-7051. Caregivers are welcome.

“I’ll bring pizza, and I ask patrons to bring their enthusiasm and ideas,” Wiley said.

These talks are the beginning of Roseburg’s “Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities” project, a grant initiative funded by the American Library Association.

Wiley recently conducted her first conversation with a group of folks at Umpqua Valley disAbilities Network thanks to Corey Hester, their Independent Living Specialist.

“I was delighted to learn that participants loved libraries and were happy to share their ideas for how we can better serve them,” Wiley said. “I came away with a lengthy list of program ideas -- everything from movies to life skills to puppet shows. A number of participants mentioned they listen to books, and I look forward to ensuring our digital platforms include titles they are interested in reading.”

Once Wiley has completed the listening sessions, she will finalize the library’s schedule of events, post them on the library’s website and social media and announce them in a press release.

Programs will occur at least once a month from September through April. After the grant project closes, Wiley plans to continue to provide a modified version of events.

Friends of the Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Roseburg Public Library book sale is Thursday, June 5, through Saturday, June 7.

This will be a better book sale with newer editions and older books of excellent quality. Most books will be priced at $1 and are in great condition with no library withdrawals. Special art books and new books published in the last three years will be offered for $5. Colorful handcrafted book bags will be available for $5. Used children’s books and mass market paperbacks will be 25 cents each. Saturday is half-price day.

During the sale, the free book giveaway will continue at the Friends Book Store inside the library. Free books are available now. Donations of gently used books always are welcome and may be dropped off during library hours.

Anyone interested in helping with the sale should contact the library at library@roseburgor.gov or 541-492-7050.