Western Iowa Tech Community College (WIT) has been selected as one of 300 libraries nationwide to participate in the fourth and final round of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities, an initiative from the American Library Association (ALA).
The competitive award includes a $10,000 grant that will support the creation of three dedicated spaces within the Denison campus library: a quiet study space, a classroom presentation room, and a multisensory room. These additions are designed to reduce barriers and better support students with disabilities, neurodiverse learners, and those who benefit from low-stimulation or structured environments.
The WITCC Denison Library serves a rural and increasingly diverse community, including firstgeneration college students, English-language learners, and working adults balancing school, jobs, and family responsibilities. Many students also navigate disabilities such as ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, mental health conditions, and physical or learning challenges that require accessible and adaptable environments.
Currently, the library functions as a central hub for studying, tutoring, technology access, and collaboration. However, its open layout, high traffic, and limited specialized spaces can make it difficult for some students to focus, regulate sensory input, or fully engage in academic work.
“This project is about removing barriers and creating spaces where all students can focus, participate, and feel supported in the library,” said Kendra Hall, WIT Library Manager.
As part of the grant, WITCC library staff will complete training in community engagement and lead conversations with students and community members to guide the final design and implementation of the spaces. Student input will continue to shape the project through surveys, feedback sessions, and collaboration with campus support services.
In a community where nearly 20 percent of residents live below the poverty line and many students face barriers to access, these improvements represent an important step toward ensuring all learners can fully participate in campus life and succeed academically.
Community members interested in learning more or participating in upcoming conversations are encouraged to contact Kendra.Hall@witcc.edu.
Since 2014, ALA’s Libraries Transforming Communities initiative has helped libraries expand their role as community leaders by supporting dialogue, accessibility, and inclusive programming.
“Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities is an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) in collaboration with the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL).”
For additional information, contact
Kendra Hall, WIT Library Manager
712-317-3311 | Kendra.Hall@witcc.edu
or Sandy Velasquez, Director of Denison Campus & Southern Service Area
712-317-3137 | Sandy.Velasquez@witcc.edu