*Communities include Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing, Deaf Plus, and other dDeaf individuals, as well as professionals, educators, service providers, advocates, and allies. Families include parents, guardians, siblings, and caregivers of dDeaf children and adults.

To:
Nashville Public Library Leadership
Tennessee Secretary of State
Tennessee State Library and Archives

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the State of Tennessee ensure full access and strengthening of statewide library services serving dDeaf, families with children identified as deaf, professionals in the field, and community allies. This is what makes the dDeaf community fully integrated and able to access the world.

Library access is essential for education, independence, lifelong learning, and community connection. The dDeaf community requires equal access to information and resources that reflect their experiences, aspirations, and needs

We respectfully ask that the State of Tennessee:

• Maintain a dedicated statewide library service for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Tennesseans.
• Ensure continued access to resources, outreach, and information throughout all regions of Tennessee.
• Include Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community members in planning and decision-making.
• Preserve and expand resources that support Deaf history, culture, education, and accessibility.
• Ensure that rural and underserved communities continue to receive access to library services.

Nothing About Us Without Us.