Pasadena Public Library Celebrates Disability Pride Month With Adaptive Art Programs

The Pasadena Public Library will host adaptive art programs during July to commemorate Disability Pride Month and honor the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in July 1990.

Tim McDonald, Director of Libraries and Information Services, and the department aim to create a more inclusive society through education and community engagement, city officials said Thursday.

The programs recognize the disability community as richly diverse and integral to Pasadena while acknowledging the challenges and experiences disabled people face in society. The month commemorates the history, achievements and unique contributions of individuals with disabilities.

The library will offer “All Abilities Community Schmoozendoodle” sessions featuring guided doodling with an Adaptive Art teacher. Participants will start from basic shapes and watch their doodles transform into unique creations in a social and supportive atmosphere. The library will display creations in an ongoing exhibit at the Villa Parke Library.

The Schmoozendoodle sessions are scheduled for Tuesdays, July 1, 8, and 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Villa Parke Community Center, Second Floor, 363 E. Villa Street. An additional session will take place Saturday, July 26 from 11:00 a.m. to noon at the same location. All materials are provided and all abilities are welcome. Registration is required online.

The library will also host “All Abilities Art” sessions designed as fun and relaxed morning activities. Adults and teens of all abilities are welcome, along with caregivers and coaches. These sessions are scheduled for Tuesdays, July 15 and August 19 at 11:00 a.m. at La Pintoresca Branch Library, 1355 N. Raymond Avenue.

The Pasadena Public Library regularly offers inclusive programming including the iBook Club, All Abilities Club, and sensory storytimes. Community members can learn more about these programs at CityOfPasadena.net/Library and https://www.cityofpasadena.net/library/calendar/.