This document discusses library services and programs for teens with special needs. It recommends establishing relationships with parents and community organizations, keeping programs simple and flexible, and soliciting input from teens and parents on desired activities. Suggested program ideas include life skills training, exercise classes like yoga and Zumba, social activities like arts and crafts, and inclusive events like popular dancing. The document also provides information on curating library collections to meet the needs of teens with disabilities.

1. Library Services for Teens with Special Needs SCLA/YASD Meeting ~ March 24, 2011

6. Enrichment Program Arts & Crafts Thursday, March 17 4:00 – 5:00 PM A special hour for teens in grades 7-12 who may need a little extra help and time to work on fun art projects. We will work in small groups and have a variety of craft projects to choose from. First time participants must be accompanied by a parent.

7. Enrichment Program Creative Movement & Yoga Saturday, April 9 2:00 – 3:00 PM This class welcomes the teenager with special needs into a space where he/she can safely strengthen gross motor skills, coordination & balance. Young adults will be guided at their own pace and facilitated by a certified yoga instructor and special education teacher, Lisa Richards.

8. Library Collection Popular titles with teens-with-disabilities characters- Good Reads Audiobooks Short stories & Reluctant Reader Collection – Orca Soundings Orca Soundings are short high-interest novels with contemporary themes, written expressly for teens reading below grade level. Talking Books Large Print Teen Books Books, media, games – Troy Public Library Special Needs Collection Create a Resource Center – pamphlets, bulletin board, etc.

9. Resources Eva’s Heroes The Compass Project SPED Child & Teen Massachusetts New York State Resource Directory NAPSCE Fathers Network Sensory World Brookes Publishing Woodbine House Publishers Going to College Partners for Youths with Disabilities Jennifer Fowler Young Adult Services Librarian West Islip Public Library, West Islip, NY 11795 631.661.7080 [email_address]