Topic 4: Autism-Friendly Library and Information Programs, Services and Resources

Introduction

The American Library Association's (ALA) Core Values of Librarianship and Democracy Statement proudly state that libraries are essential parts of their communities and that all members of a community should have equal access to a library's materials, programs, and services. Besides these professional expectations to be accessible, responsive, and inclusive of patrons with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the Americans with Disability Act makes providing equal access a legal obligation as well. Libraries are well-known for providing a variety of both traditional and innovative programs and services for all ages. In addition, libraries must also provide appropriate accommodations and modifications to existing programs to promote inclusivity and to serve patrons of all abilities. This topic will begin to address the ways that libraries can better serve the needs of patrons with ASD, both in direct and indirect ways, through policies and programs.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this Topic, you will:

• Be able to identify areas of your library policy that could be edited or revised to offer more inclusivity;
• Understand the purpose of an accessibility statement and gain practice writing a sample statement;
• Understand the concept of inclusive programs and determine what types of inclusive programs would be useful in your library;
• Employ strategies to make existing library programs more inclusive; and
• Locate additional resources for staff training