Name: Lower Your Drawbridge: Strategies for Disability-Inclusive Customer Service
Start: 2026-04-22T16:10:00-0400
End: 2026-04-22T17:00:00-0400

Welcome to the 2026 Tennessee Library Association Conference! #tnla26 We’re glad you’re here. Build your schedule below, and be sure to check the various pages for additional conference details.

Lower Your Drawbridge: Strategies for Disability-Inclusive Customer Service

Wednesday April 22, 2026 4:10pm - 5:00pm EDT

200 B

Libraries work with disabled patrons every day. Many barriers come from interaction, not policy. This session provides practical steps for creating a welcoming experience for patrons with sensory, cognitive, and communication disabilities. You learn how to reduce exclusion at service points, adjust communication in the moment, and support dignity and independence through simple actions. The focus is on steps any library can use, regardless of staff size or setup. You leave with tools that help you connect, build trust, and offer inclusive service across your library.

Speakers

Beth Williamson, CPACC

Program Manager, Library Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing | Nashville Public Library, Graduate Student, University of South Carolina

Beth Williamson is Program Manager for Library Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at Nashville Public Library, a certified accessibility professional, and an MLIS student at the University of South Carolina. Her work focuses on inclusive public service, equitable library practice... Read More →

Wednesday April 22, 2026 4:10pm - 5:00pm EDT
200 B

Program Session

2026 TNLA Conference

Beth Williamson, CPACC

Attendees (63)

Get help with the event

2026 TNLA Conference

Beth Williamson, CPACC

Attendees (63)

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