Resources for the Autism Community

We strive to be a welcoming place for all members of the community. This includes families affected by the autism spectrum and other developmental disorders. The following resources have been selected by librarians to help families who are affected by ASD. Please check them out, and feel free to let us know if there is anything else you’d like to see on this page or in our collection.

This Is My Library

This visual guide is an introduction to the Reading Public Library, designed to help familiarize children with their local library. We have them on hand at the Children’s Room desk, or feel free to print out the “This is My Library” PDF at home.

Library Visual Communication Guide

This guide can be used to help communicate when navigating the library. It includes pictures to represent parts of the library, directions, questions, and common library interactions. We have them on hand at the Children’s Room, Circulation, and Reference desks, or you can print out the Communication Guide PDF at home.

Autism Spectrum Resources in the Parents’ Collection

The Children’s Room participated in a grant called “Serving Children with Special Needs: Children with Autism”.  The project was funded through the MBLC with funds from LSTA, a Federal source of library funding provided by the Institute of Museum & Library Services.  With funds from the grant, we purchased a large assortment of books, videos, and periodicals of interest to families and teachers affected by ASD.
We’ve purchased books and DVDs that cover everything from early intervention to IEPs, from special diets to sensory integration problems.
Or see the complete list of materials purchased (PDF).

ASD friendly programs and storytimes

We offer a Sensory Storytime specially tailored for kids on the spectrum, with sensory integration issues, and other developmental delays.
We want all kids to feel welcome at our storytimes and other programs. We have a visual schedule available to use during these events, so participants know what is coming next. We also have weighted bean bags and other small fidget toys that can help keep little fingers busy, or provide the sensory input needed to stay calmer in a group setting. For smaller groups, carpet squares can be provided for seating, which help the children understand their boundaries. We do understand, however, that not all children can sit quietly through an entire program. If your child needs to leave the room to take a break in a more quiet space, or needs to pace around in the back of the room to concentrate, that’s ok (as long as behaviors are not unsafe or disruptive for the group). Communication is the key; please let us know if there is anything specific we can do to help your child have a positive library experience.

Helpful Links

Early Intervention information from MASS Family Ties
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks First 100 Days Kit – PDF file
Asperger’s Association of New England
A Parent’s Guide to Special Education by the Federation for Children with Special Needs and the Mass DOE
Northeast Arc Autism Support Center
Arc of East Middlesex
Reading Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)
Resources for families – database of therapists, booklists, upcoming events, and a list of helpful organizations, compiled by the Autism Consortium.
MedlinePlus autism page – Definitions, overviews, research, treatments, and more