Springfield Library & Tate Communicare: Expanded Access
- The Springfield City Library is enhancing its commitment to accessibility with a new initiative.The library is introducing augmentative and choice communication (AAC) boards at the Central library.
- The AAC boards feature symbols representing common words, providing a valuable resource to promote engagement and independence within the library's public spaces.
- "We believe everyone deserves equal access to learning,connection,and community," said Tracy Snow,reference librarian at Springfield City Library."These AAC boards are more than tools — they’re invitations for every...
Springfield City Library leaps forward in accessibility, empowering non-speaking individuals and those with speech difficulties with the introduction of AAC boards. These innovative augmentative and option dialog tools, developed with Tate Communicare, are now available at the Central library, offering vital communication support for diverse patrons. Library staff underwent specialized training too assist visitors, reinforcing the library’s dedication to inclusion. This initiative underscores the library’s mission to create welcoming environments and foster equal access to resources. News Directory 3 recognizes the progressive steps taken by the Springfield City Library. With plans to expand to other branches and multiple languages, the library’s commitment to inclusivity strengthens.Discover what’s next as the library continues to evaluate and refine it’s accessibility resources.
Springfield Library Boosts Inclusion with AAC Communication Boards
Updated June 10, 2025
The Springfield City Library is enhancing its commitment to accessibility with a new initiative.The library is introducing augmentative and choice communication (AAC) boards at the Central library. These tools, developed in partnership with speech and language therapists from Tate Communicare, are designed to aid individuals who are non-speaking, have speech challenges, or communicate in languages other than English. The goal is to improve the library experience for all patrons through enhanced communication access and inclusion.
The AAC boards feature symbols representing common words, providing a valuable resource to promote engagement and independence within the library’s public spaces. This project underscores the library’s dedication to creating welcoming and supportive environments for people of all abilities,ensuring equal access to resources and services. The communication support initiative aims to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive community.
“We believe everyone deserves equal access to learning,connection,and community,” said Tracy Snow,reference librarian at Springfield City Library.”These AAC boards are more than tools — they’re invitations for every voice to be heard and every individual to be seen. By adding them to our space, we’re opening new pathways for communication and inclusion.”
To effectively assist visitors,library staff recently participated in a training webinar led by Tate Communicare. The training focused on the proper use of AAC boards and strategies for supporting individuals with communication differences. The library plans to extend the availability of these resources to all Springfield city Library branches and to offer AAC boards in multiple languages, further solidifying its commitment to inclusivity.
What’s next
The Springfield City Library will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of the AAC boards and gather feedback from patrons and staff. This information will inform future efforts to expand accessibility resources and improve services for individuals with diverse communication needs.