Pop Up Library Too!
Houston Public Library, Texas
Innovation Synopsis
Pop Up Library TOO! is an expanded version of Houston Public Library’s (HPL) famous Pop Up Library program. The program’s focus is the literacy development and learning efforts of children with various special learning needs. It incorporates books, technology, sensory activities and take-home activities that are fun and enjoyable.
Challenge/Opportunity
HPL was inspired by the opportunity to provide inclusive family centered sensory programs, services and resources to the more than 21,000 children, ages zero to 17, with hearing, vision, cognitive, ambulatory and self-care difficulties in the Houston area that no public library was providing. Through exposure to targeted library activities and programs that place the learner at the center of creation of sensory based programming, Pop Up Library TOO! facilitates engaging experiences for this population. Every aspect of this program is designed to teach or reach the special needs community, including serving as a clearinghouse for resources.
Key Elements of Innovation
Pop Up Library TOO! collaborates with area schools, social service agencies and organizations that work with the special needs population and have a high demand for family centered sensory programming. Additionally, the program is inclusive of families that do not qualify for special services from social service agencies or providers. HPL has trained staff on how to effectively engage and conduct age-appropriate/developmentally-sensitive programming for special needs youth and offers unique sensory programs, such as the HPL Improv Puppet (HIP) Theater, that meet the needs of the child and promote parental engagement. Recommended resources are a portal to local support networks.
Achieved Outcomes
By improving staff knowledge, sensitivity and confidence in delivering inclusive library programming Pop Up Library TOO! has simultaneously increased inclusive family-centered library programming and staff awareness. Children with special learning styles benefit from uniquely crafted sensory related activities that support individualized development. Using Puppets, flip kits and picture books this program reaches an audience where over 75 percent of the children are living in low to moderate income areas that would otherwise lack access to quality services. This trusted community resource has established 30 new partnerships and provided 760 uniquely challenged children with a creative and innovative linkage to literacy.
