Serving Neurodivergent and Disabled Patrons in Public and Academic Libraries

December 10, 2-3 PM Eastern

Single registration: (1) Click on Add to Cart, (2) Click on Check Out, (3) If you are registering for another person, please upload the first name, last name, title, and email address of that individual using the upload link you receive in your confirmation email.

If you are registering 2 or more people: (1) Click on Add to Cart, (2), Click on “Add More” until you reach the number of people you would like to register, (3) Click on Check Out, (4) Use the upload link in your confirmation link to upload the first name, last name, title, and email address of these individuals--and yours if you plan to attend the webinar.

Public and academic libraries are serving growing numbers of patrons who identify as neurodivergent, have disabilities, experience mental health conditions, or face cognitive challenges. While these groups are not the same, they often encounter similar barriers to accessing library spaces, programs, collections, and services. How can libraries create welcoming environments that support a wide range of needs while recognizing the unique experiences of different individuals?

This webinar will provide librarians with an updated understanding of neurodiversity, disability, and accessibility, drawing on current research and emerging best practices. It will also address common misconceptions, evolving language preferences, and ways libraries can better support patrons and caregivers in an increasingly complex information landscape.

Attendees will learn about:

• Current concepts and terminology related to neurodiversity, disability, and mental health
• Common barriers neurodivergent and disabled patrons may encounter in library spaces and services
• Practical communication and customer service strategies for supporting diverse patron needs
• Inclusive programming, collection development, and outreach ideas for libraries of all sizes
• News and updates on the forthcoming disability policy DSM-VI

Presenter

Carrie Rogers worked for a decade in public libraries and was named the 2013 Utah Librarian of the Year. After leaving libraries, she founded a mission-based company that trained tens of thousands of students, parents, and educators around the world. Carrie continues her work around technology, ethics, AI literacy, and safety through the nonprofit Digital Citizenship Foundation.

Carrie is the author of nine books, with more in production. She was named to ALA's 2021 Ouing Reference Sources List for her title Serving Teens and Adults on the Autism Spectrum: A Guide for Libraries. Carrie lives in Utah with her family and serves as a full-time faculty member at a public university while continuing her consulting, nonprofit, and writing work.