The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) proudly recertifies the Peoria Public Library Main Branch and Sunrise Branch as Certified Autism Centers™ (CAC). This designation is awarded to organizations whose staff complete autism-specific training and certification to equip them with the best practices and resources to assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests. Originally certified in 2022, the branches’ CAC designation is a testament to their ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility and ensuring that every reader is welcome in the libraries.
“The City of Peoria strives to be an inclusive community where everyone is welcome,” said Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat. “This renewal is a giant step in accomplishing that goal, and I want to thank library staff who went through many hours of training to learn the educational, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of individuals with autism necessary to attain this certification.”
“We are excited to renew the Certified Autism Center™ designations for Peoria Public Library’s Main Branch and Sunrise Branch, highlighting their dedication to support every person that visits the library, creating a welcoming environment for all,” says Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “This training not only prepares library staff to best assist autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals, but it also creates an accessible environment for every reader to have the best experience possible.”
Since 2001, IBCCES has been the leader in autism, neurodiversity, and cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES created programs for a variety of industries, so staff would be more knowledgeable and other accommodations could be offered to this growing, but underserved, part of the community. IBCCES is the only credentialing board offering these types of programs, which include training from subject matter experts and autistic self-advocates, as well as long-term support, continuous learning, and more.
IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com and CertifiedAutismCenter.com, free online resources for parents that lists certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the sites have met Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) requirements.
About Peoria Public Library
Both Peoria Public Libraries offer an array of services and programs for all members of the community. In addition to print and media collections, Peoria’s libraries offer Explore-To-Go kits, seed libraries, Wi-Fi hot spots, and Culture Passes. The libraries also offer a variety of programs for individuals of all ages such as story times, reading programs, book clubs, tech classes and several special events for the whole family. Visit your local Peoria Public Library today!
About IBCCES
Committed to providing the global standard for training and certification in the field of cognitive disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.
Learn More About Becoming A Certified Autism Center™
Fill out the form below to learn more about our CAC Program, which includes staff certifications, training options and center certification.
IBCCES Accessibility Card Now Available as a Mobile App