Understanding and Assisting Library Patrons on the Autism Spectrum

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is estimated to affect 1 in 59 children in the U.S. and to be present across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups across the lifespan. Librarians will therefore be likely to encounter patrons who are "on the spectrum" and require at least some modifications in their library use due to communication, sensory integration, and other challenges. This workshop will provide librarians in school, public, and academic settings with a greater understanding of ASD as well as strategies for communicating more effectively with such patrons. Librarians will also learn strategies to manage challenging behaviors common in individuals with ASD, make library spaces more accessible, design programming, and build relationships with community partners to better serve this patron group.