Library Staff Training

Library Training

Communication ALL Ways provides staff training sessions for libraries that focus on inclusive communication strategies, basic American Sign Language (ASL), and Deaf culture awareness to help create more welcoming and accessible library environments for all patrons.

Inclusive Communication at the Library Desk

Designed for all library staff, this session provides practical strategies for welcoming and supporting Deaf, Hard of Hearing, nonverbal, and disabled patrons. Learn how to use visual supports, body language, and respectful communication to create a more inclusive library
environment.


Theme: Creating a welcoming space for all patrons


Activities: Learn about accessible communication strategies for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and
disabled patrons; roleplay respectful responses


Ideal for: Front desk staff, children’s librarians, tech and circulation teams.


→ Recommended for teams wanting actionable tools and confidence in communicating with
diverse patrons.

ASL Basics for Library Staff

No prior sign language experience needed! This interactive training teaches useful everyday signs like “help,” “book,” “bathroom,” and “library card.” Includes roleplay, visual aids, and tips for using signs in real-life situations at the desk or during programs.


Theme: Everyday signs and confidence with communication


Activities: Practice signs like Hello, Book, Bathroom, Help, Library Card; explore real-world
use with short scenarios


Ideal for: Library staff of all experience levels—no sign language background needed.


→ Excellent for building team skills, enhancing accessibility, or as a refresher before program
season.

Workshop Details

Sign, Connect, Engage: ASL Strategies for Librarians
Duration: Two 1-hour sessions
Fee: $1,500

 

Course Description:
Sign, Connect, Engage: ASL Strategies for Librarians is an engaging and hands-on workshop tailored for librarians who want to enrich their storytime experiences with American Sign Language (ASL). This program explores the powerful connection between visual language and literacy development, offering practical strategies for incorporating ASL into everyday storytimes. Participants will learn how to seamlessly integrate ASL signs into opening and closing routines, songs, chants, and reading sessions to support language acquisition and enhance engagement.

 

Through this workshop, attendees will discover simple and effective techniques such as signing key vocabulary words, using props like puppets and felt boards to reinforce signs, and incorporating interactive activities to make learning fun. Additionally, the session will highlight the benefits of using ASL for visual and kinesthetic learners, making storytime more inclusive and accessible for all children. Participants will leave with practical tools to implement in their own storytimes, ensuring a more interactive, inclusive, and enriching literacy experience for all.

Objectives:

  • Introduce foundational ASL vocabulary relevant to storytimes
  • Demonstrate practical ways to integrate signs into songs, books, and activities
  • Provide strategies for making signing a natural and consistent part of library programming
  • Explore the benefits of signing for language development, engagement, and inclusion