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New Accessible Stage Expands Opportunities for Community Meeting Room Users
We’re excited to announce our Mary Beth Nienhaus Community Meeting Room features a new reservable ADA-compliant stage and ramp system. The new stage is made possible thanks to the generous support from Wispact Foundation and Friends of Appleton Public Library.
“The addition of our new stage ensures presenters and performers with disabilities can fully participate in library and community programs,” said Colleen Rortvedt, Library Director. “Our new stage is one way we’re fulfilling our purpose as a space for everyone.”
The stage also received support from SOAR Fox Cities, a local nonprofit that serves individuals with differing abilities. In a letter supporting the grant application, Executive Director Erin Schultz-Wege emphasized the impact of the new equipment, writing, “A portable ADA stage is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a tool for empowerment.”
The stage has already been used at several community events, including the Appleton Police Department’s 2026 Honor Assembly and a League of Women Voters candidate forum.
Organizations and community members interested in reserving the Mary Beth Nienhaus Community Meeting Room, including use of the stage, can submit a reservation request online, email meetingrooms@apl.org, or call 920-832-6170 for more information.