International Day of Persons with Disabilities

December 3rd was International Day of Persons with Disabilities, as designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993.  The observance of this Day is to recognize the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons of disabilities.  The hope is to encourage understanding, initiate support for various needs, and promote inclusion in all areas of the community.

Yonkers Public Library offers resources, and modifications to those resources according to the needs of the patron.  These services include books in large print, big books, pop up books, audiobooks with different audio speeds, eBooks with various text sizes, alternative spacing options, and much more.  For assistance with the app settings, you can access the tutorial here,  or call the library at (914) 375-7966.  You can also find additional information on our Disability Services page by clicking here. 

Another useful resource is our Puppy Love Program, which will be resuming in January.  Children can read to a trained therapy sheepdog named Cooper.  This program is designed to improve children’s reading and communication skills in a safe, calming environment.

Below is a list of children’s books that illustrate characters facing these difficult challenges. They are available to borrow at the Yonkers Public Library through our contact-free pickup.  Just tap the title below and it will take you to our catalog.

• Arnie and the New Kid – by Nancy Carlson
• My Friend Uses a Wheelchair – by Kirsten Chang
• Luke has Down’s Syndrome – by Jillian Powell
• Sosu’s Call –  by Meshack Asare
• A Picture Book of Louis Braille – by David Adler
• Helen Keller: Meet A Woman of Courage – by Carin Ford
• Disability Visibility – by Alice Wong
• The Learning Tree: Overcoming Learning Disabilities  – by Stanlet Greenspan
• Janine – by Maryann Cocca-Leffler
• Mrs. Gorski, I Think I Have the Wiggle Fidgets – by Barbara Esham

 Or check out similar eBooks for all ages here!