Library’s Grassi Receives National Honor

The Deerfield Public Library is becoming a destination for children with special needs and Youth Services Librarian Renee Grassi is a major reason why.

Grassi was recently named one of 53 “movers and shakers” among her peers by Library Journal, a major industry publication, for her innovative work with special needs children for the programs Sensory Storytime and Read to Rover.

“Her efforts have made our library a destination as a place where children with special needs and their families can feel comfortable,” Library Director Mary Pergander said. “She has really developed the program.”

After the library received a grant from the Target Corporation to develop the programs for special needs children, Grassi not only used the grant but developed the program even further, according to Pergander. The award is also significant because of the size of library.

“We’re a relatively small library and for Renee to be recognized like this is outstanding,” Pergander said.

Grassi has been in her current position since 2008.