Public Lecture / Gayane Grigoryan ‘Inclusion in Libraries: More than Access’ Inclusive libraries believe that knowledge belongs to everyone. And when everyone has the opportunity to read, learn, and develop, we create a society where difference is not a barrier, but a strength. An inclusive library is not just a place to access information. Such libraries consider it their mission to create an environment where everyone can use library resources without barriers. During a public lecture titled “The Library as a Platform for Inclusion,” Gayane Grigoryan, Head of the Programs Department at the “Agate” Rights Defense Center for Women with Disabilities NGO, spoke about several important factors necessary to have an inclusive library today. Why is inclusion important in libraries? Regardless of their abilities or social affiliation, everyone should have equal rights to read, learn, and develop. Inclusive libraries help overcome educational and social gaps by creating community ties. Gayane Grigoryan spoke about some key points about inclusive libraries. They are:

Ինչու՞ է ներառականությունը կարևոր գրադարաններում Բոլոր մարդիկ՝ անկախ կարողություններից կամ սոցիալական պատկանելությունից, պետք է ունենան հավասար իրավունքներ՝ կարդալու, սովորելու և զարգանալու համար։ Ներառական գրադարանները օգնում են հաղթահարել կրթական և սոցիալական անջրպետները՝ ստեղծելով համայնքային կապեր։ Խոսելով ներառական գրադարանների մասին՝ Գայանե Գրիգորյանը խոսեց մի շարք առանցքային կետերի մասին։ Դրանք են՝

• Physical accessibility and adaptation of space: wheelchair access, elevators, wide doorways, adapted seating. • Tactile materials and signals: Braille books, high-relief markings, guidelines for people with visual impairments. • Audio and video in different languages: Availability of materials in various languages, including sign language materials for people with hearing impairments. • Accessible websites and electronic resources: Websites and digital services adapted to the technological needs of individuals, so that the reader’s abilities are not limited. • Cultural and educational events for everyone: A diverse cultural program where all age, linguistic, and social groups can find their place. • Special programs for different groups: programs for children, the elderly, diaspora representatives, needy families, and people with mobility problems. • Staff training: Library staff are constantly trained to ensure an inclusive and welcoming environment. Inclusion is not a specific initiative, but a mindset that everyone has a place in the library. #inclusivelibrary #accessibleknowledge #libraryforall #thepowerofequality