Project ENABLE (Expanding Non-discriminatory Access By Librarians Everywhere) was created in response to the findings of an IMLS-funded, three-phase research study conducted from 2006- 2009 by a team of researchers from Syracuse University, led by Dr. Ruth Small. The study April 2020 A Semi-Annual E-Newsletter Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 2 investigated the impact of a variety of library and information services on student learning and motivation in schools in New York State. Their survey of over 1600 school librarians, found that their confidence in their ability to provide effective services to patrons with disabilities was significantly lower than all other services provided. Subsequent surveys with academic and public librarians had similar findings.
LIFEDesigns CEO, Russell Bonanno, contributed an article in the newsletter regarding Sound Advice for Project Enable and why it matters. Russ is a firm believer in the importance of libraries in the lives of all people and a strong proponent of projects that ensure that current and future librarians are well-prepared to address the needs of their patrons with disabilities. Click here to read his entire article and more on Project Enable.