Supporting Autistic Children and Adults with Libraries

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals differently, presenting challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Libraries can play a crucial role in supporting and enriching the lives of people with autism by providing inclusive spaces, resources, and programs. Let’s explore five ways autistic children and adults can each benefit from libraries and discuss the importance of special training for library staff to support patrons with cognitive differences better.

 

Benefits for Autistic Children:

 

  1. Sensory-friendly environments: 
  • Libraries can create sensory-friendly spaces by designating quiet areas, offering noise-canceling headphones, and providing adjustable lighting. These accommodations can help autistic children feel more comfortable and focused while exploring the library (Farmer, 2013).

 

  1. Storytimes and interactive programs: 
  • Engaging storytimes and interactive programs tailored to the needs of autistic children can foster a love for reading, improve social skills, and provide opportunities for learning and growth. Librarians can use visual aids, repetition, and predictable routines to support comprehension and participation (Ennis-Cole & Smith, 2011).

 

  1. Social skills groups: 
  • Libraries can host social skills groups for autistic children, providing a safe and structured environment to practice communication, turn-taking, and friendship-building. These groups can be facilitated by trained librarians or community partners (Cottrell, 2016).

 

  1. Assistive technology: 
  • Libraries can offer assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software and augmentative and alternative communication devices to remove communication barriers and enable autistic children to access information independently (Edwards, 2018).

 

  1. Inclusive resources: 
  • By ensuring their collections include books, videos, and other resources that positively represent autism and promote neurodiversity, libraries can help autistic children feel valued and understood while educating their neurotypical peers about autism (Adkins & Bushman, 2015).

 

Benefits for Autistic Adults:

 

  1. Quiet study spaces: 
  • By providing quiet, distraction-free spaces for autistic adults to work, study, or pursue personal interests, libraries are uniquely suited to support those with cognitive challenges. These spaces may include private study rooms, designated quiet areas, or sensory-friendly environments (Eng, 2017).

 

  1. Skill-building workshops: 
  • Libraries can offer workshops and classes that cater to the interests and needs of autistic adults, such as job readiness, technology skills, or creative expression. These programs can help autistic adults develop new skills, explore their passions, and connect with others who share their interests (Small, 2019).

 

  1. Social events: 
  • Hosting social events for autistic adults, such as book clubs, game nights, or discussion groups is an excellent way to offer a controlled social setting. These events provide opportunities for autistic adults to socialize, form friendships, and engage with their community in a supportive environment (Svaler, 2024).

  1. Sensory-friendly programming: 
  • Offering sensory-friendly programming, such as movie screenings with reduced volume and dimmed lights, or concerts with noise-canceling headphones can be more -welcoming to those with sensory sensitivities. These accommodations enable autistic adults to participate in cultural events and enjoy leisure activities in a comfortable setting (Damron, 2019).

 

  1. Access to information and resources: 
  • Libraries can curate resources and provide information on topics relevant to autistic adults, such as independent living, employment, and advocacy. By connecting autistic adults with reliable information and community resources, libraries can support their well-being and autonomy (Anderson, 2018).

 

The Importance of Special Training for Library Staff:

 

Supporting patrons with cognitive differences, such as autism, may require special training for library staff. This training can help staff understand the unique needs and challenges faced by autistic individuals, as well as develop strategies to create inclusive and welcoming environments.

 

Library staff should receive training on:

 

  1. Understanding autism: 
  • Staff need to learn about the characteristics of autism, the diverse ways it can manifest, and the strengths and challenges associated with the condition. This knowledge can help staff approach interactions with empathy and understanding (Anderson & Everhart, 2015).

 

  1. Communication strategies: 
  • Training will cover effective communication strategies, such as using clear and concise language, allowing extra processing time, and offering visual support. These techniques can help staff convey information effectively and reduce misunderstandings (Small, 2019).

 

  1. Sensory sensitivities: 
  • Staff should be aware of common sensory sensitivities experienced by autistic individuals and learn how to create sensory-friendly environments. This may include managing noise levels, providing alternative lighting options, and offering sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones or fidgets (Edwards, 2018).

 

  1. Behavior support: 
  • Training would equip staff with strategies to support individuals who may experience stress, anxiety, or sensory overload in the library setting. This may include providing quiet spaces for de-escalation, using positive reinforcement, and collaborating with caregivers or support professionals (Anderson, 2018).

 

  1. Inclusive programming and resources: 
  • Staff should receive guidance on developing and implementing inclusive programming and curating resources that represent and support the needs of autistic patrons. This may involve consulting with autistic individuals, families, and community organizations to ensure programs and resources are relevant and accessible (Adkins & Bushman, 2015).

 

By investing in special training for library staff, libraries can create more supportive environments for patrons with cognitive challenges. This training not only enhances the library experience for autistic individuals but also promotes understanding, acceptance, and belonging within the broader community.

Libraries have the potential to significantly benefit and enrich the lives of autistic children and adults by providing inclusive spaces, resources, and programs. By creating sensory-friendly environments, offering tailored programming, and curating relevant resources, libraries can support the unique needs and interests of autistic individuals. Furthermore, by investing in special training for staff, libraries can ensure they can create welcoming and supportive environments for all patrons, regardless of their cognitive differences. As pillars of the community, libraries have a vital role in promoting neurodiversity, fostering understanding, and ensuring equal access to information and opportunities for individuals across the autism spectrum.

 

References:

Adkins, D., & Bushman, B. (2015). A special needs approach: A study of how libraries can start programs for children with disabilities. Children and Libraries, 13(3), 28-33. https://doi.org/10.5860/cal.13n3.28 

 

Anderson, A., & Everhart, N. (2015). Project PALS: Ensuring success in libraries for patrons with autism. Teacher Librarian, 43(2), 24-27.

 

Edwards, E. (2018). Serving Autistic Library Users: Fostering Inclusion While Meeting Individual Needs. Illinois State Library, 36(1).

 

Eng, A. (2017). Neurodiversity in the library: One librarian’s experience. In The Library With The Lead Pipe. http://www.inthelibrarywiththeleadpipe.org/2017/neurodiversity-in-the-library/ 

 

Ennis-Cole, D., & Smith, D. (2011). Assistive technology and autism: Expanding the technology leadership role of the school librarian. School Libraries Worldwide, 17(2), 86-98. https://doi.org/10.29173/slw6820

 

Farmer, L. S. J. (2013). Library services for youth with autism spectrum disorders. American Library Association.

 

Cottrell, Megan. (2016). Storytime for the Spectrum. American Libraries Magazine.

 

Svaler, T. B. (2024). On making libraries and museums more accessible for autistic people. IFLA Journal, 50(1), 42-52. https://doi.org/10.1177/03400352231202516

 

Anderson, A. (2018). Autism and the Academic Library: A Study of Online Communication. College & Research Libraries, 79(5), 645. doi:https://doi.org/10.5860/crl.79.5.645 

 

Damron, M. (2019). A Sensory Wonderland: A programming space for the special needs community. Public https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2019/06/03/a-sensory-wonderland/ 

 

Small, R. V., Schriar, S., & Kelly, M. P. (2019). Targeting Autism in Libraries: A Comprehensive and Collaborative Training Program for Librarians. The International Journal of Information, Diversity, & Inclusion, 3(4), 78–88. https://www.jstor.org/stable/48645199