Best of Core: Radical Accessibility: Building Belonging and Breaking Barriers

Description: 

Discover practical strategies to authentically improve library building accessibility for both staff and patrons. This session will explore concrete examples, including the implementation of multilingual signage; the creation of accessible restrooms with adult changing tables; the design and use of inclusive furniture; and the provision of lactation rooms, sensory and quiet spaces. Learn how new access to spaces created opportunities for policy and practice change as well. Participants will gain insights recently learned from a history-making library building bond and learn how these changes can radically enhance the library experience for everyone.

Learning Outcomes: 

At the end of the webinar, attendees will be able to:

• Return to their libraries with a fresh perspective on universal design and the knowledge of how to evaluate their own spaces. 
• Learn how to collaborate with community members and organizations to learn about often unseen challenges to accessibility. 
• Learn how planning for inclusive universal design in library building design and construction can become a core principle, rather than an afterthought.

Who Should Attend: Library directors, facilities directors, staff interested in CE in action

Presenters:

Annie Lewis was appointed Multnomah County Director of Libraries in October 2024 after serving as Interim Director since June 2024. In this role, she provides strategic direction and leadership for the organization through creating systems that are rooted in organizational values of equity and inclusion and by nurturing organizational development to support people through change. She holds an MLIS from the University of Washington and a B.A. from Pacific University. Annie Lewis, Director of Libraries, Multnomah County Library. 

Katie O'Dell is invested, attentive, and organized. O'Dell believes public libraries offer infinite opportunities to create a better future. With nearly 30 years experience as a senior library executive, grant manager, and frontline librarian, their unique skill set is in facilitating an idea from kernel to completion. Katie O'Dell, Library Capital Bond Deputy Director, Multnomah County Library. 

Jeanie Lai is a design principal at Bora Architecture & Interiors with 28 years of experience shaping transformative academic, civic, and cultural projects. As an architect and interior designer, she works across disciplines to create meaningful, community-centered spaces that foster belonging, reflect cultural identity, and deepen connections to nature. Rooted in a childhood love of art and making, her work blends storytelling, craft, and materiality—elevating spaces and bringing joy to the places we inhabit. Jeanie Lai, Principle, BORA Architecture & Interiors. 

Tech Requirements