I am currently taking American Sign Language for Library Staff through ALA with ASL interpreter, author, librarian, and teacher Kathy MacMillan. Last Spring I was able to take some classes with this teacher with a state-wide grant from MELSA and this class helps me learn more in a more in depth and well-rounded way about how to communicate better with our deaf library patrons. Already, I am feeling much more skilled at using finger-spelling and common ASL signs that can be used in the library. We will be going in depth and participating in either a virtual or in person event specifically for the deaf and I am excited and just a bit nervous about this, but know that it will really help my skills. I look forward to communicating better with my deaf patrons and also to helping to teach my story hour children some common ASL signs like colors and how to say hello.
