April Is Autism Acceptance Month
April 3, 2024
Autism Acceptance Month provides a chance to spread awareness, understanding, and support for the autism community. We’re exploring how the month's name has shifted from “awareness” to “acceptance” as well as how the library supports the autism community through books, events, and accessible library spaces.
During Your Library Visit
In the library, sensory kits and activity bins are available in the Kids Room, as well as a calming Sensory Break Room. There is a Quiet Room on the second floor for adults who may need a calming space. Our social narrative provides an overview of the Kids Room and other relevant library spaces for young patrons who may benefit from a visual introduction to the library.
Books
Reading books is one of the best ways to learn about others, reflect on our own experiences, and expand our perspectives. In recent years, more books have been published by autistic authors, and they provide windows into the experience of living with autism. Our staff put together a short list of recommended books about autism for various ages, most of which were written by people with autism or by parents with autistic children.
Explore more books about the autism experience at The Autism Books by Autistic Authors Project and Not an Autism Mom Book Club & Book Lists.
Events
Share your voice and insights at a Disabilities Town Hall on Sunday, April 14.
Participate in book discussions to better understand autism or share your personal experience. Adults will be discussing We’re Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation during LitLounge online, and families with children will be reading A Day with No Words during Rockin' Readers.
Attend an event that has been designed with neurodivergent people in mind, of all ages. Teens can socialize with peers during Friend Squad. All are welcome to watch the Disney movie, Elemental, at our sensory-friendly movie screening. Families with children and teens are also invited to play, read, game, and interact with therapy dogs during an Early Entry to the Kids Room.