Leon County Libraries’ Autism Awareness Initiatives

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

In 2021, Leon County, Florida developed an annual series of programs and events through its public library system to celebrate autism and neurodiversity. These events are held each year during the month of April, which is recognized as “National Autism Acceptance Month.” This initiative originated from a suggestion by a library patron who asked if the County would develop library programming specifically adapted for autistic children. Leon County’s strategic plan includes a “bold goal” to implement 500 different citizen ideas over the course of the five-year plan, so the County’s library staff was eager to fulfill the patron’s request while at the same time advancing the County’s strategic goals. Leon County Libraries’ autism awareness initiatives include art exhibits, “sensory story times,” a resource fair, and a variety of other events and resources that spread awareness and promote acceptance of autism and neurodiversity. These initiatives are hosted in partnership with the Florida State University Autism Institute and Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, the Able Artists Gallery, Arts4All Florida, and other related community partners.