Autism Welcome Here: Library Programs, Services and More grant

A note from our friends...

Applications are being accepted for the Autism Welcome Here: Library Programs, Services and More grant now through December 1, 2018.

 This grant honors the groundbreaking work of Libraries and Autism: We're Connected co-founder, Meg Kolaya, for her contributions in promoting inclusion, connecting libraries with the autism community, and bringing awareness of the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families to the library community.


For the fourth year, this grant will award a total of $5,000, with all of the funds either going to one proposal or the amount divided among several applicants, depending on the applications received. All types of libraries, either in the United States or Canada, are encouraged to apply, and proposals will be eligble  that fund projects and/or services directed at any age group. Applicants may propose to initiate a new, creative program or service,  or enhance a program or service they currently offer. All proposed projects must benefit people with autism or their families, directly or indirectly. Funds may be used to hire a trainer to present a workshop, buy program materials,  pay for staff coverage, etc. so long as these expenses further the library's ability to serve people with autism through the proposed initiative.

The grant is a direct outcome of the Illinois State Library's broad and ambitious project, Targeting Autism: A National Forum on Serving Library Patrons on the Spectrum, and is funded by Barbara Klipper, retired librarian, consultant, trainer, and author.

For more information about the grant criteria, application, past winners, and timeline, see the Libraries and Autism grant page.