Florida State University

Florida State University will conduct a research study, PROJECT A+: Students with ASD in the Academic Library: Coaching to Enhance Implementation of Librarian Professional Development. The study's goal is gathering findings that can be used to inform current practice in the enhancement of library programs, facilities, and services to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patrons. The project team will investigate knowledge and attitudes along with plans for implementing changes after training as well as anxiety levels and perceptions to answer the questions: What professional development strategies are more likely to lead to librarians' successful implementation of interventions and supports for students with ASD in different types of academic libraries? How do students with ASD describe their experiences in these libraries? What resources are being described as needed for implementing a successful library experience for academic library users with ASD? Findings will be shared at professional conferences for the library and autism communities, through a webinar, and via an implementation guide featuring embedded videos and photographs that show how academic librarians implement what they have learned through training and coaching over time.