Indianapolis, Indiana – In a groundbreaking move to enhance accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, the Indianapolis Public Library has teamed up with Tangram to install Universal Changing Stations at select locations across the city. This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand resources and ensure that all residents, including those with mobility challenges, can access library services comfortably and with dignity.
The four library branches that will benefit from these Universal Changing Stations are: the Fort Ben Branch located at 9330 East 56th Street, the Nora Branch at 8625 Guilford Avenue, the Pike Branch at 6525 Zionsville Road, and soon, the Central Library at 40 East Saint Clair Street. These stations are designed to cater to individuals who have difficulty using traditional restroom facilities, providing them with a safe and accessible space to manage personal care.
Universal Changing Stations are not your typical restroom amenities. They are full-sized, height-adjustable changing tables, designed specifically for individuals with mobility challenges. These stations promote dignity and safety, offering essential support for people with disabilities, older adults, and caregivers. This initiative is part of the Library’s commitment to improving public services and making the community more inclusive.
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“The strategic initiative reflects the Library’s commitment to championing equitable access to knowledge and resources for all,” said Gregory A. Hill, Sr., MLS, MSM, Chief Executive Officer of The Indianapolis Public Library. “It is part of the Library’s broader effort to lead with intention, not only through our collections, services, and programs, but also in the design of our physical spaces.”
This effort was made possible through an Innovative Pilot Program grant, which helped fund the installation of these stations. The initiative also aims to educate the public about the importance of accessible changing stations and to raise awareness about the available resources for individuals with disabilities and their families.
For Darolyn Jones, a local mother and accessibility advocate, this initiative is particularly meaningful. Jones shared her personal experience, explaining the profound difference the Universal Changing Stations make in her life and the life of her son, Will, who has cerebral palsy.
“When my son was younger, he would often accompany me to The Indianapolis Public Library to enjoy the children’s programming,” Jones said. “As he grew, I wasn’t able to take him into the bathroom and change him. So, he stopped coming with me. Will is now 21 years old, and I’m happy to be able to bring him back to the Library because of the access these changing stations provide.”
This sentiment is shared by many parents, caregivers, and individuals who have long struggled to find accessible changing facilities in public spaces. These stations are not only a practical solution for caregivers, but they also provide a sense of inclusion and dignity to those who might otherwise be excluded from everyday activities due to the lack of accessible restroom facilities.
Tangram, a Hancock County-based organization that has been serving individuals with disabilities since 1985, is a key partner in this initiative. Founded by families of individuals with disabilities, Tangram has long been committed to helping people with disabilities live independently and create sustainable solutions to the challenges they face.
Sam Criss, Tangram’s CEO, expressed his excitement about the partnership with the Indianapolis Public Library. “With the aim of removing barriers and improving the quality of life for Hoosiers with disabilities, we are excited to partner with the Indianapolis Public Library in installing universal changing stations at multiple library branches across the city,” Criss said. “There is no better partner with a focus on inclusion than the Indianapolis Public Library. Not only do they have a culture that embraces everyone, but their numerous locations and ease of access make them the ideal partner in this endeavor.”
The partnership between Tangram and the Indianapolis Public Library exemplifies the power of community organizations coming together to create accessible spaces. By focusing on inclusivity, the project ensures that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the activities and resources offered by the Library, whether they are attending a program, using a computer, or simply browsing the collection.
The installation of Universal Changing Stations is just one example of how the Library is working to improve services for all residents. According to the Library’s website, this initiative is part of a larger effort to make library spaces more accessible to a wider range of visitors. The addition of these stations reflects the Library’s broader vision of removing physical and social barriers, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, can take full advantage of the resources and services offered.
For those interested in learning more about how the Indianapolis Public Library is supporting the diverse needs of its visitors, additional information is available on their website. Visitors can explore a range of assistive services designed to support people with various disabilities, from large-print books to technology solutions that make learning and reading easier.
The success of the Universal Changing Station initiative highlights a growing trend in public spaces, where the needs of people with disabilities are increasingly being prioritized. More organizations, institutions, and public spaces are recognizing the importance of creating environments that foster inclusion and provide dignity to all individuals. The installation of these stations at the Indianapolis Public Library is a significant step in ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has access to the public services and resources they deserve.
As the initiative continues to expand, the Library hopes to see even more public and private partnerships focused on improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. With the success of this partnership with Tangram, the future looks promising for making public spaces throughout Indianapolis and beyond more inclusive for all.
For more information about the Universal Changing Stations, other accessible services, and the Library’s commitment to inclusivity, the public is encouraged to visit the Indianapolis Public Library’s website or contact the library directly.
