In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day as a means to affirm and promote the realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic people.

March 31 is International Transgender Day of Visibility, which celebrates transgender identities while also drawing attention to the discrimination transgender people face. Here are just a few recent books that address gender diversity or feature transgender characters.

Our latest Between the Lines event encouraged meaningful dialogue about human differences.

Did you know that children in Wilmette have already voted many times?

Wilmette and Evanston Public Libraries, in partnership with community organizations, invite you to learn about resources and pathways that support you and your loved ones in a safe and affirming space.

Considering the fact that 11 million people in the United States—about 3.6 percent of us—are deaf or near-deaf, this singular minority doesn’t get much attention. People who experience deafness don’t get flags, or parades. Yet deafness is not simply a disability.

How do we help children understand the meaning of Pride – a joyful celebration that commemorates decades of struggle for human rights?

Raising and educating a child often unfolds differently than we expect. There are surprises, questions, and circumstances beyond our control. Books offer talking points, examples, and language for real life situations, and help us make sense of unfamiliar territory.

Celebrate magical, joyful, and romantic stories of trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people this March 31, on International Transgender Day of Visibility.

Racial literacy is a set of skills needed to talk thoughtfully about race and to identify and respond to racism. These books provide background and guidance for meaningful conversations and positive action. 

Books can be gateways to meaningful conversation and opportunities to build empathy and expand vocabulary. When you’re reading together, take time to ask questions about the story and illustrations.