Library Services to Underserved Children and Their Caregivers -- Toolkits

The Library Service to Underserved Children and Their Caregivers committee creates vibrant, dynamic toolkits that provide up-to-date resources for library practitioners working with populations that are marginalized. 

Each toolkit offers professional and leisure reading recommendations, support for programming, and materials for families. Click on the title links below to access PDFs of the kits.

Access to Technology
In the digital age, access to the internet and the skills to use digital resources are essential to learning, working, and communicating. The digital divide is the gap in opportunities and benefits between those who have adequate access to digital resources (especially the World Wide Web) and those who don’t. - Read a blog post about this toolkit.

Autism and Sensory Processing Disorder
By creating strong connections with the autism community, a library increases inclusivity, celebrates autistic culture, and builds life-long advocates for the library. - Read a blog post about this toolkit.

Children with Print Disabilities
The field of accessible materials for children with print disabilities continues to evolve rapidly. In recent years, there have been key developments, including enhanced text-to-speech technology, improved mobile accessibility features, and expanded international access to digital libraries. Libraries should regularly verify the current status of recommended resources as platform, pricing, and availability change frequently. - Read a blog post about this toolkit.

Financial and Housing Insecurity Resources
Libraries can support families and youth experiencing poverty and/or homelessness through programs and services. Collaborations with schools, non-profits, and other community agencies can help library workers understand what is happening in the community and become familiar with the resources available to families. - Read a blog post about this toolkit.

New Americans
New Americans comprise an important part of US society, with approximately 13.7% of the population - or 44 million people - being born in another country. Libraries are uniquely positioned to support new Americans, whether through basic needs like learning English or more complex topics like community and civic engagement. Doing so requires intentional processes and reflection as we consider each community's unique needs. - Read a blog post about this toolkit.

Spanish-Speaking Populations
According to Census data, Spanish is the second-most-spoken language in the US.  In order to provide successful outreach to the Spanish-speaking population, it’s crucial to examine common assumptions Spanish Speakers may have about libraries. - Read a blog post about this toolkit.

Supporting Children, Teens, and Their Caregivers Impacted by Carceral Systems
At any given time in the United States, nearly 2 million people are incarcerated, including adults and juveniles, in local jails, state and federal prisons, and immigration detention centers. This toolkit contains resources split into three sections: 
Part I: Recommended books for children and teens with family members or caregivers who are in the carceral system. 
Part II: Recommended books for children and teens who themselves are in the carceral system. 
Part III: Recommended resources for library staff to learn and share with other adults.

Trauma Toolkit
Underserved Children and their caregivers facing trauma constitute a vulnerable population that requires special attention and support. Trauma experienced during childhood can have profound and lasting effects on a child's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Librarians and library workers can play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of trauma on children and their families.