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What is See Beyond the Spectrum: Autism Inclusion at the Beals Memorial Library

See Beyond the Spectrum initiative, aims to help create a more accepting and accessible library for people on the spectrum and their families. We will offer a variety of services for the community that will focus on sensory-friendly programming and activities, educating library staff and the community, and expanding the library’s collection.

All programs are funded by the

Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities is an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) in collaboration with the

Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL).”

Interested in learning more about this initiative or about the grant? 
Check out our brochure highlighting some of what we are currently doing. 

April is Autism Acceptance Month!!

What is Autism Acceptance Month?

April is Autism Acceptance Month. It’s the time of year when we raise awareness to promote acceptance of autism, celebrate each individual’s unique differences, and foster inclusivity and connectedness. It’s time to honor the unique perspectives of people living with autism and their families.

How is the Library Celebrating?

All month long, we will be hosting events and programming that the whole community can enjoy. We will also be highlighting our current library materials, local resources, and our plan to further support the autism community. All library-led events are free, open, and designed with individuals who are neurodivergent, on the autism spectrum, or have other special needs and their families in mind.

Our April Events & Programming:

  • Monday, April 8 at 6pm: Autism Documentary Movie Night (This event is not sensory friendly)

  • Saturday, April 13 from 9am-10am: Sensory Friendly Browsing Hour

  • Saturday, April 13 at 10am: Sensory Friendly Movie Showing

  • Tuesday, April 16 from 10am-12pm: Storywalk featuring the book Masterpiece by Alexandra Hoffman

  • Saturday, April 20 from 10am-12pm: Sensory Friendly Touch a Truck

  • Monday, April 22 at 6:30pm: Walking Beside You, Caregiver Support Group

  • Saturday, April 27 from 10am-6pm: Sensory Kid Corner at the Winchendon Renaissance Faire.

ASD Storywalk Updated 3.18.24.png
Sensory Hours Spring.png
Touch a Truck Updated 2.12.24.png
April Sensory Movie.png
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Past Events & Activities

Sensory Hours Winter (2).png
Sensory Friendly Bowling Afternoon Update 10.24.23.png
Sensory Santa Visit Updated 11.27.23.png
Sensory Hours Fall (1).png
ASD Open Swim-School.png
Sensory Friendly Saturdays.png
January Sensory Movie.png
LTC Grant Convo.png
Do you have a question, an idea, or would like to offer your services?
Please contact Alexis at 978-297-0300 or achanthachack@winchendon-ma.gov
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