Creative Commons is a monthly program at the Lincoln East Regional and Ridglea libraries in Fort Worth designed specifically for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here’s how it is helping connect community members from all walks of life.
According to a city blog post, the monthly program provides an opportunity for participants to complete hands-on, interactive projects focusing on arts, crafts, music, dance, and theater.
Lynn Holt is the adult programming librarian for the Fort Worth Public Library. She said that some standard adult crafting workshops can be overwhelming for adults with disabilities.
While children’s crafts are easier to complete, she said adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve to spend time with other adults doing activities designed specifically for them. That’s where Creative Commons comes in.
“I’ve loved working with Creative Commons because it gives me a chance to meet people in an underserved community that I probably would not have met in my regular programming,” Holt said.
Patricia Everett is the library assistant at Ridglea responsible for coordinating that branch’s programming. She said regular attendees are often a group of Fort Worth ISD adult students in the district’s Transitions program.
“This community isn’t asking for anything special, only to have their needs accommodated, and we can do that,” Holt said. “It is also, and this cannot be overstated, so much fun. It’s an opportunity to make judgment-free art, to make friends, and to get out of our comfort zones.”
Holt remarked on the connections the library has made with the caregiver community. “We’ve made some connections between individuals and organizations providing care and access,” she said. “We’re also providing a chance for caregivers to also make some art and some friends who have a lot in common.”
Learn more about Creative Connections and upcoming sessions on the library’s website.