ERVING — The Erving Public Library has been awarded a $20,000 national grant to help foster a better experience for patrons who identify as neurodivergent.

The library is one of 240 participants in Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities, an initiative by the American Library Association that “provides community engagement and accessibility resources to small and rural libraries to help them better serve people with disabilities,” according to an announcement from Library Director Abigail Baines. The grant will fund new library offerings for those who identify as neurodivergent, such as periodic social events and sensory experiences.

The library’s announcement defines the term “neurodivergent” as referring to “disabilities and different kinds of communication or cognitive functioning including but not limited to autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, bipolar, dementia and Alzheimer’s.” Baines said residents who either identify as neurodivergent, or who assist those who do, inquire “at least a few times a month” about improved offerings for patrons who might benefit.

“One of the things we see is a lot of caretakers and assistants who bring their cohorts here,” she said. “They use the library as a landing point and a hub for activities.”

As part of the grant’s conditions, library staff members are required to take an online course in how to lead conversations. Upon completion, staff will “host conversations with residents about being neurodivergent, what services the population needs and use the grant funds to bring the identified services to this population.” “Community Conversations” are planned for Tuesday, Aug. 22, from 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. at the Erving Senior & Community Center; Wednesday, Aug. 23, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Erving Public Library; and Thursday, Aug. 24, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Erving Public Library. Food will be provided.

Baines said she hopes these conversations will help educate staff to “spend the grant for what the community needs” and avoid them “making any sort of assumptions.”

Although staff have yet to engage in these talks, the library is also planning to host evening socials for neurodivergent patrons once or twice monthly starting in October. The gatherings will include food, sensory activities and more low-key spaces that may have music and low lighting.

“It’s a significant bridge for people,” Baines expressed. “If you’re not used to being in public around people, it’s a way to do that without being overwhelmed.”

Those who are interested in participating in Community Conversations are encouraged to contact Assistant Library Director Jean Daley at jean.daley@erving-ma.gov or 413-423-3348, ext. 1, or visit erving-ma.gov/library for more information. Baines stressed that the library welcomes input and attendance from residents not only of Erving, but of surrounding communities, too.

Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-930-4231 or jmendoza@recorder.com.

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