Open AccessWelcoming autistic students to academic libraries through innovative space utilization
Author(s) -
Kerry Walton,
Rachel McMullin
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
pennsylvania libraries
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2324-7878
DOI - 10.5195/palrap.2021.259
Subject(s) - neurotypical , space (punctuation) , psychology , autism spectrum disorder , process (computing) , academic library , autism , autistic spectrum disorder , autistic spectrum , library science , computer science , developmental psychology , operating system
“If the library can serve as a safe and welcoming place for these students, it will help contribute to their ultimate college success.” (Anderson, 2018). Certain characteristics of autism spectrum disorder can make it challenging for autistic college students to make use of academic libraries. High levels of sensory stimulation and the need to understand and comply with neurotypical social norms can make library spaces feel unwelcoming and difficult to use. West Chester University Libraries decided to develop a dedicated space for our growing cohort of autistic students to study. This article will discuss the reasons why autistic students may find academic libraries challenging as well as the considerations and process of developing a separate space for autistic students within a library.