Opening public libraries to people with autism

Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that includes differences or challenges in social communication skills, fine and gross motor skills, speech, and intellectual ability.1The symptoms of autism vary widely in type and severity and are usually seen in early childhood. Some common symptoms include a need for sameness and repetition, anxiety, and atypical responses to sensory input, like unusual sensitivity to light, sound, smell, or taste.  Most cases of autism are diagnosed through interviews, observation, and evaluations by a psychologist, developmental pediatrician, and pediatric neurologist. While there is no established cure, behavioral, educational, and family therapy may help reduce symptoms and build skills.