CMU Libraries Promotes Empathy, Acceptance, and Appreciation During Autism and Neurodiversity Acceptance Month

In honor of Autism & Neurodiversity Acceptance Month, the CMU Libraries are proud to announce a special book collection (online and on display) along with other activities such as, therapy Dogs in the Park on 4/18 at 5 p.m., locating the right study space for you, and Ask a Librarian services in person, on the phone, or in writing.

Throughout April, the library will showcase a selection of literature encompassing various neurodivergent identities, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. The collection can be found online at library.cmich.edu/neurodiversity or on display near the checkout desk. Consisting of a broad array of memoirs, fiction, and scholarly works, the collection offers a rich tapestry of perspectives, shedding light on the unique strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals.

"We're thrilled to provide this special collection and activities in recognition of Autism and Neurodiversity Acceptance Month," said Lee Parker, Instruction and Outreach Librarian at CMU Libraries. "Our goal is to create an inclusive space where everyone feels represented and understood. Through literature, we can promote empathy, acceptance, and appreciation for neurodiversity.”

Dogs in the Park will take place on Monday, April 15^th from 5 – 7 p.m. on the 2^nd floor of the University Library. Besides providing doggy cuddle time, numerous observations have shown that Autistic individuals can develop a greater capacity to interpret social cues if they also have relationships with animals. (Grandin et. al, 2019; Carlisle et al., 2018) At Dogs in the Park, we have witnessed animals helping many students to smile and relax, even during exam week.

This is also a good time for our community to find their favorite library study space by exploring the library aided by our guide to study spaces at Park Library Study Spaces. If you are looking for a group study space or an individual study pod that is quiet, dark, loud, or bright, the library has a space for you. We also have a variety of furniture, tools, and technology available for many study needs.

Ask a Librarian is here to help students save time and find the right resources to succeed. This month we challenge our students to communicate their need for assistance in a way they feel most comfortable. Get help finding what you need by talking with a librarian in person, on the phone, or in writing with the library’s Ask a Librarian services.

CMU Libraries look forward to celebrating Autism and Neurodiversity Acceptance Month with our entire community. Enjoy the month and remember, we are here to help!

Grandin, T., Fine, A.H., O’Haire, M.E., Carlisle, G., Gabriels, R. (2019). The Role of Animals for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, In Fine, A.H. (Ed.) Handbook on animal-assisted therapy : Foundations and guidelines for animal-assisted interventions (5th ed. pp. 285-298). Elsevier Science & Technology.