Plan to make our libraries more user friendly for autistic children

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Cr Margaret Chivers, second from left
Cr Margaret Chivers, second from left, received unanimous support for her idea of local libraries being more responsive to the needs of young people with autism.

Parents, residents and service providers are being surveyed as part of a Campbelltown City Council investigation into ways to make local libraries more inclusive and accessible for children on the autism spectrum.

The survey closes this Friday, February 24.

Participants are invited to share their thoughts on the barriers children with additional needs face when accessing Council libraries, and potential services or programs which could enhance their visit to the library.

Input from the community, and autism experts, will help shape a trial program aimed at making local libraries more relevant, accessible and friendly for children with additional needs, and their families.

Newly elected Labor councillor Margaret Chivers suggested the idea of libraries being more responsive to the needs of those on the asutism spectrum last year and it was enthusiastically supported by all other councillors.

Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr George Brticevic, said the survey was the first step in ensuring local libraries were providing as much support as possible for children with additional needs.

“Council is committed to ensuring all children are supported in reaching their full potential, and enhancing the educational opportunities offered through our local libraries is a great way to do that,” he said.

“Whether it be music programs, quiet spaces, therapy dogs, craft or computer activities – Council would like to hear the community’s ideas on the best way to make our libraries more inclusive and accessible.

“It’ll only take a short amount of time to fill out the survey, but it could have longterm benefits.”

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