The Alachua County Library District is proud to announce the return of the Library for Me open house events, for children and adults on the autism spectrum as well as their loved ones. There will be two open house events this year, hosted at the Millhopper Branch and the Headquarters Library before the libraries' normal operating hours, to allow patrons on the spectrum and their loved ones to enjoy the library without the normal level of visitors.
This is a sensory-friendly event for all members of the autism spectrum community.
There will be a variety of activities for all ages and designated quiet areas will be available to allow patrons to relax.
The University of Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UF CARD) will be at both events with resources and information on the services that UF CARD provides to the autistic community and their loved ones.
Sunday, April 23, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Headquarters Library
401 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
- Red Carpet Area: Sensory Story Time, 10:30 a.m.
- [Updated 4/19/23] Courtyard: Chill zone
- Lobby: Crafts and resources provided by UF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
- Back wall & windows: Coloring pages & activities
- Headquarters Floorplan: Lobby & First Floor [Updated 4/19/2023]
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Sunday, April 30, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Millhopper Branch
3145 NW 43 St., Gainesville, FL 32606
- Meeting Room A: Sensory Story Time, 10:30 a.m.
- Teen Room: Movie space
- Study Rooms: Quiet areas
- Children's Area: Crafts and resources provided by UF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
- Tot Lot: Outside play area
- Millhopper Branch Floorplan
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There will also be a standalone Sensory Story Time at the Hawthorne branch this month:
Sensory Story Time - Hawthorne Branch | Tuesday, April 25 at 10:30 a.m.
6640 S.E. 221 St., Hawthorne, FL 32640
This story time will introduce children to the library and rhythms of story time in a gentle, fun, and enriching manner.
Library Resources for Autistic Patrons & Their Loved Ones
How To Check Out Sensory Toys
Users must have a library card to check out sensory toys. If you do not have a card, view information on how to get a card. To view sensory toys inside your library, ask library staff. Sensory toys are checked out to patrons under the following agreements:
- Check out for 14 days.
- 1 Sensory Toy per card.
- Return all of the contents in the bag together.
- Return to any branch.
Self Checkout Machines
Most locations (excluding Archer, Micanopy, and Waldo) have self checkout machines available for patrons to check out materials without having to talk to a staff member.
What you need:
- Your library card or card number
- Your pin or password (default: the year you were born, e.g. 1985)
At the self checkout machine, you will be asked to scan your library card or enter your card number, and then to confirm that it's you by inputting your pin or password. Once inputted, the machine will pull up your account, allowing you to check items out on your own!
Be sure to read all instructions posted around the self checkout machine and to follow the prompts on the screen.
Assistive Services
You can find a full list of all services on the Assistive Services page. All branches are ADA compliant and can make further accommodations as needed. Please reach out to your local branch with questions or concerns.