We Need Your Input NOW! Help Illinois Libraries Improve Service to the ASD Community

Posted on February 5, 2015

Illinois libraries are exploring how best to provide information on all aspects of the Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to communities across the state. This library ASD initiative is led by the Illinois State Library, with funding through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

The purpose of the survey is to better understand your needs, priorities, and interests around ASD in order to guide the development and delivery of ASD information services by community libraries across the state. Please share the survey with your patrons, friends and all Illinois residents who have been personally or professionally  affected by ASD.

The survey is available in English and Spanish and can be reached through the following link:   

http://maps.waymarksystems.org/s3/Targeting-Autism-2015-consent 

 Your participation in the survey is voluntary and all responses will be kept confidential — only combined responses will be reported.  The results will be presented at a state-wide summit session in March and they will be distributed broadly, including to people who have responded to this request.

Thank you for your consideration — we do hope you will take the survey and share your views.

Inexpensive Tablets and Apps for Autistic Kids

Posted on November 10, 2014

Catherine Shu writes:  “TechCrunch first profiled Puzzle Piece, a startup that makes affordable tablets and apps geared toward children with autism, in May.  Though educational apps are helpful for teaching autistic kids social skills and helping them with their schoolwork, many families could not afford a tablet.  Puzzle Piece wants to make tech accessible to all families, with a 9-inch Android tablet that costs $29 and a $19-per-month subscription plan that gives children access to a library of more than 80 apps.”…