Training
Free Webinar Reminder: “A Spectrum on the Shelves: Building a Library Collection for People with Autism” – Sept. 17, 2019
As we conduct much needed diversity audits of the materials on our shelves, we need to be including materials for the neurodivergent community in this analysis. Attendees will gain awareness and a working knowledge of autism spectrum disorder along with common neurodevelopmental disorders that can coincide with autism. In this interactive webinar, we will identify adaptive materials and multimedia geared to cognitive, motor, visual, auditory, sensory and social skills development. Insight given on collaboration with autistic self-advocates, caregivers, special education professionals and rehabilitative therapists to help plan appropriate collection components. Attendees will also take away tips on processing, sustainability, and marketing.
Jen Taggart is Assistant Head of Youth Services and librarian responsible for the Youth Special Needs Collection at the Bloomfield Township (MI) Public Library. She has presented on accessibility in library services and collection development nationally, in addition to creating the biennial Adaptive Umbrella Workshop for librarians working with people who have disabilities. She also co-developed the Special Needs Services Roundtable (SNSR) of Michigan librarians providing services for children, teens, and adults with disabilities and serves as programming chair of the Michigan Alliance for Cultural Accessibility (MACA). In 2009, Jen received the Michigan Library Association Children’s Services Division Award of Merit for her development of the Special Needs Collection and innovative youth programs and was named a Mover & Shaker by Library Journal in 2016. You can also find her blogging about inclusive services at Adaptive Umbrella
This free webinar is open to all and will be held on Tuesday, September 17th, from 12:30-1:30pm (CST). To enter the Adobe room at the time of the event, click: A Spectrum on the Shelves: Building a Library Collection for People with Autism
If you plan to attend the webinar, please click: Suzanne Schriar , to send an email. Include your name and name of library (if applicable).
On the day of the webinar and prior to the start time, please test your connection at: http://webjunctionillinois.adobeconnect.com/common/help/en/support/meeting_test.htm
Autism Basics Webinar – Now Archived
Targeting Autism’s webinar, “Autism Basics: A Webinar for Librarians and Literacy Providers,” has been archived and is available on the Illinois State Library website. Click here and find the Training Webinars heading.
Need a better understanding of ASD? Schedule a training session at your library!
As part of the Targeting Autism initiative, we offer training sessions to librarians and support staff throughout all types of libraries in Illinois at no cost.
Training topics can include:
What is autism and why do I need to know about it?
How do I make my library “Autism Friendly”?
What kinds of accommodations might be necessary for my patrons with autism?
Environmental concerns; lighting, noise
Special library programming for students on the spectrum
Training can be customized to meet your specific needs.
Targeting Autism also provides no cost consultations to address individual questions or concerns, via phone, email or Skype. This service is available to libraries within as well as outside of Illinois.
To set up a training or consultation contact Mary Pelich
ASD Training and Consulting Opportunities Available for Libraries!!
From October, 2015 through September, 2016 as part of the Targeting Autism grant project, Russ Bonanno, project partner and Director, The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) is available to schedule a limited number of consulting and training opportunities for interested libraries.
Services include:
- providing on-site introductory level training sessions in the understanding of autism;
- consulting and providing technical assistance in developing needs assessments related to autism; and
- consulting and providing technical assistance in developing programs or evaluating modifications to better meet the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
This is a great opportunity for librarians and all public services library employees to receive expert consulting services and training at no charge! To get on the schedule and ensure a session at your library, contact Russ Bonanno at your earliest convenience.
targetingautismlibs.com 