Information Services for People with Developmental Disabilities: The Library Manager's Handbook

Developmental disabilities are the most numerous of disabilities, and they are exceptionally complex. This professional reference overviews developmental disabilities, discusses the information needs of people with developmental disabilities, and provides practical guidance to librarians and information professionals who serve them. Particular attention is given to the ramifications of the Americans with Disabilities Act for librarians.

The first part of the book defines and describes developmental disabilities from perspectives relevant to librarians and information professionals. The second part examines key life issues that have a major impact on people with developmental disabilities. This section emphasizes the current trend toward the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in mainstream society. References to related information sources are included throughout. The third part looks at disabilities from the perspective of the library or other information agency. An appendix lists organizations, agencies, businesses, and libraries that provide additional materials.

LINDA LUCAS WALLING is Professor in the College of Library and Information Science at the University of South Carolina. She has authored and edited several books and articles on library services for people with disabilities.

MARILYN M. IRWIN is Director of the Center for Disability Information and Referral at the Institute for the Study of Developmental Disabilities, and a part-time Assistant Professor in the School of Library and Information Science at Indiana University.