2023 report on the experiences of neurodivergent students at Atkins Library
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This report describes the study our team conducted to better understand the needs and experiences of students at UNC Charlotte who identify as neurodivergent and/or as having a disorder related to mental health or function, specifically as they related to Atkins Library and UNC Charlotte. The re-search team for this study was comprised of representatives from the library’s committees for Assessment, Diversity & Inclusion, and Student Engagement. To make this assessment, we used a multi-method approach that included interviews and photovoice discussions, in which participants took photographs that were then discussed in group sessions. All participants in the study were students at UNC Charlotte who identify with the indicated population. Deliberate steps were taken to reduce the influence of the potential biases of the research team and to ensure that participants felt comfort-able sharing frank feedback on potentially sensitive topics. After analyzing the gathered data, the research team identified six prominent themes in the comments by participants, each of which are divided into subthemes that are explained in the full report: 1. My condition affects my library experiences most commonly by making it difficult to focus when I’m trying to use a library space to study. 2. Besides struggling to focus, my most typical negative experiences in the library are feeling overwhelmed and/or socially anxious. 3. I greatly value how the library’s variety of spaces and resources supports the many different ways I want to use the library, including as a place to relax. 4. UNC Charlotte is a much more supportive and inclusive environment for my condition than schools I’ve attended in the past. 5. COVID had a negative impact on my experiences as a student, and there are a few things I still struggle with as a result of the pandemic. 6. My first semester was the one I found the most difficult. Using our findings, the research team assembled a list of five recommendations intended to better align Atkins Library with the needs and experiences of neurodivergent students: 1. Create a sensory-friendly study room. 2. Offer noise control strategies in other study rooms. 3. Create a marketing campaign for this community. 4. Make it easier for users to find the right space on arrival. 5. Advertise online contact methods at new points-of-need.