Libraries Transforming Communities Small and Rural Communities
Ashby Free Public Library Celebrates Three Rounds of Libraries Transforming Communities Grants
The Ashby Free Public Library is proud to share the profound impact of its three rounds of funding from the American Library Association’s Libraries Transforming Communities (LTC) initiative. Each grant has allowed the library to listen more closely to community needs and respond with meaningful, inclusive improvements that enrich the lives of Ashby residents.
The first grant focused on supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through community conversations and partnerships, the library created welcoming programs, accessible services, and a sense of belonging for individuals who had long been underserved. From hands-on art workshops to adaptive technology support, the library became a vital space where people of all abilities could learn, create, and connect.
The second round addressed the needs of patrons with mobility challenges. After speaking directly with those affected, the library expanded parking and improved outdoor access to the building—changes that made an immediate and transformative difference for older adults, people using mobility aids, and anyone who found the existing entrance difficult to navigate.
Now, with its third LTC grant, the library is focusing on children with neurodiversity. This phase includes upgrading the children’s room, adding a sensory exploration space, expanding inclusive programming, and increasing staffing to better support young patrons and their families. These enhancements are designed to help every child feel comfortable, engaged, and able to explore the joy of reading and learning at their own pace.
Across all three grants, the Ashby Free Public Library has kept one promise at its core: to listen to the community and evolve to meet its needs. Through these efforts, the library continues to grow as a model of rural innovation, accessibility, and community-centered service—ensuring that every person in Ashby can feel seen, supported, and welcomed.
Media Mentions
