The Burlington County Library System is launching its annual Summer at the Library program with a special event that will spotlight the library’s adaptive materials, inclusive spaces and programing for children and adults of all abilities.
The Summer Fun for Everyone festival will be held on Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Burlington County Library in Westampton. This free community event will feature inclusive activities for all abilities, along with entertainment, community resources and opportunities for individuals and families to connect.
The event will also showcase the library’s inclusive programming and materials, including sensory-supportive books, interactive resources and adaptive equipment acquired with the assistance of a $13,000 state grant from the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Children’s System of Care. The grant is managed on behalf of the library by the Burlington County Library System Foundation. These purchases will help the library system expand its existing programming, including Sensory Storytime, Special Needs Social Hour events. The grant will also fund the purchase of new materials designed to assist children with various disabilities and learning needs.
“For more than a century, the Burlington County Library System has been a place of learning and exploration for all residents. And it is constantly evolving to remain a trusted resource for everyone, no matter their age, income or ability,” said Burlington County Library Commission Chair Jonathan Chebra. “Summer Fun for Everyone highlights this transformation and shows how the library’s materials and spaces allow all individuals and families to visit comfortably and participate fully. We want every visitor to feel seen, valued and excited to take part in everything BCLS libraries have to offer.”
The kickoff event is funded through a partnership with The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development, which functions as New Jersey’s federally-designated University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. The center is part of Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and works to promote inclusion equity and full participation by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Among the activities planned for the kickoff event are:
- A sensory-friendly activity zone with tactile play, soft seating, visual supports and quiet areas;
- Inclusive live entertainment, including interactive magic performances by magician Jake Strong and a hands-on musical instrument play zone from Keeping Music Alive;
- Adaptive arts and creativity stations designed for all skill levels and motor abilities;
- A community resource fair featuring organizations, disability advocates and family support services
- Summer at the Library registration assistance and prizes.
Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo applauded the library system for taking steps to welcome individuals with disabilities and their families.
“As the father of a child with special needs, I know how important it is for them to feel included and part of a community,” said Commissioner Brolo. “I’m proud of the Burlington County Library System for working with The Boggs Center to expand its inclusive programming and materials. The Summer Fun For Everyone event is a fantastic way for families to familiarize themselves with the BCLS and the many resources it offers.”
“Burlington County libraries are trusted resources in our communities and proven difference-makers for all residents,” added Commissioner Tom Pullion, the liaison to the Burlington County Library System. “We’ve seen first-hand how the library has made changes to better serve and assist people of all ages and abilities. We’re excited for them to discover the new materials the library system has acquired and the programming the library has planned for this year’s Summer Reading Program.”
The events resource fair will have representatives from Burlington County departments, local organizations and community groups offering information about educational programs, disability services and family resources available in the county and throughout the region.
There will also be information about the Burlington County Library’s Summer at the Library program, a series of summertime activities, events and reading lists for children to help foster a love of reading throughout the summer and beyond.
“Our libraries are important centers of activity all year round, but especially in the summer months when children and families participate in the library reading programs, educational experiences and community events,” said Burlington County Library System Director Ranjna Das. “Summer Fun for Everyone and the Summer Reading Program reflect BCLS’s ongoing commitment to ensure that every community member feels welcomed, supported and included. We’re able to offer these resources and programming thanks to the support from partners like the BCLS Foundation and The Boggs Center.”