Programming for Children and Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Those who understand the unique sensitivities of young people with autism spectrum disorder, now the second most commonly diagnosed serious developmental disability, know that ordinary library programming guides are not up to the task of effectively serving these library users. Klipper has presented at conferences and trained librarians from around the country in autism awareness, and the grant-funded Sensory Storytime programming she developed at The Ferguson Library in Stamford, Connecticut is a model for reaching children and teens with autism spectrum disorder. Her complete programming guide, ideal for audiences ranging from preschool through school-age children, teens, and families, Provides background information on the disorder to help librarians understand how to program for this special audience Features step-by-step programs from librarians across the country, adaptable for both public and school library settings Suggests methods for securing funding and establishing partnerships with community organizations Includes a glossary and list of additional resources that will prove valuable to librarians and parents/caregivers alike

Barbara Klipper has been involved with people with autism since 1986, when the first of her two sons to have this disorder was diagnosed. She and her husband were founding parents of Giant Steps, a school for children with autism in Fairfield, Connecticut. In 2002 she was asked to develop the Special Needs Center collection for The Ferguson Library in Stamford, Connecticut, and since then she has been able to combine her interests in librarianship and service to children with disabilities. Barbara developed The Ferguson Library's grant-funded sensory storytime program, and she has presented at conferences and trained librarians from around the country in autism awareness and sensory storytime programming. An active member of the American Library Association, Barbara has chaired the Library Services for Special Population Children and Their Caregivers Committee and served on the Schneider Family Book Award jury and the ALA Accessibility Assembly.