Indianapolis, Indiana – The Fort Ben Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library has once again been officially recognized as a Certified Autism Center™, a distinction renewed this month by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This renewal is more than a formality—it represents a continued and growing commitment to accessibility, neurodiversity, and inclusion at one of Indiana’s most community-centered library branches.
The Fort Ben Branch first opened its doors in 2023 and made history as the first public library in Indiana to earn the Certified Autism Center™ designation. Since then, the library has embraced its role as a safe and welcoming space for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals, offering resources, programming, and training that reflect an understanding of diverse needs.
To maintain the CAC status, the branch’s guest-facing staff recently completed updated autism and sensory training. This training, required by IBCCES, ensures that employees not only maintain their skills but continue to evolve their approach to supporting the neurodiverse community.
“The Indianapolis Public Library serves everyone—and that means not only creating a robust collection of relevant materials but also creating spaces where all people feel welcome and supported,” said Gregory Hill, CEO of The Indianapolis Public Library. “As the first library in Indiana to be recognized as a Certified Autism Center™, the response from our community has been deeply affirming. I’m grateful to our staff for their ongoing commitment to the training that helps us be a destination for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals and their families.”
Located in District 10, the Fort Ben Branch is supported by local leaders who see the certification as more than just symbolic. City Councilor Ali Brown praised the branch for embracing a mission that truly reflects the heart of public service.
“The Fort Ben branch and its dedication to our community through its efforts to welcome and serve everyone is exactly what our community needs,” said Brown. “The commitment to creating an inclusive environment and community ripples through the district, city, and county. Autism is not something that will go away or that individuals will grow out of, and it’s not something that needs to be cured. It’s a different way of seeing the world. That’s why a library is an amazing place. It helps us all see the world differently, through the lenses of so many authors and creators. We understand each other better when we can all come together. The Fort Ben Library should be commended and celebrated for their work.”
The impact of the certification isn’t just felt externally—it’s shaped the internal culture of the library staff as well. Fort Ben Branch Manager Shelby Peak shared how the training prompted more honest conversations among team members and even helped one staff member identify their own sensory needs.
“Staff feel safe talking about their own sensory needs. This led to one of my staff members receiving their own autism diagnosis, which has led to them being more successful at work,” said Peak. “It has also created a more welcoming environment that draws patrons and volunteers to us. Library visitors have utilized our sensory kits and come from all around the city to us specifically because they know with our certification, we are a safe space for them.”
The Fort Ben Branch has built upon this foundation with real, tangible changes. The Autism and Neurodiversity Collection has nearly doubled in size since the library opened, reflecting the growing need for accessible resources. The branch also hosts a yearly Disability Resource Fair, giving families and individuals a place to connect with local organizations and support networks.
“Renewing the Certified Autism Center™ designation is a testament to the dedication of Fort Ben Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, included, and accommodated,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Indianapolis Public Library and seeing the ongoing impact this certification will have on their visitors.”
For some staff members, the training has been transformative on a personal level. Sarah Tadsen, a children’s librarian at Fort Ben, shared how the process helped her better serve all patrons—and better understand herself.
“People are often quick to think of kids with autism and what their needs might be, but I have also seen how much this training has been impactful for adults,” said Tadsen. “In addition, I was able to identify potential indicators of autism, seek diagnosis, and feel confident and supported by my coworkers after receiving my own autism diagnosis.”
This evolution toward greater inclusion is supported by resources beyond the library walls. Through IBCCES, the Fort Ben Branch is featured in the Accessibility App—a free mobile tool that connects users to certified sensory-friendly destinations around the world. In addition, websites like CertifiedAutismCenter.com and AutismTravel.com give families a way to discover places and professionals trained in neurodiversity awareness.
IBCCES, which has provided autism and sensory training for over 20 years, stands out as the only credentialing board to offer comprehensive certification programs across industries—from healthcare and education to public services and travel. Their training involves not only expert-led modules, but also input from autistic self-advocates, ensuring that lived experiences inform best practices.
The Fort Ben Branch’s renewed certification is not simply a badge—it’s a symbol of progress. It’s proof that when institutions prioritize training, dialogue, and compassion, they become powerful allies for inclusion. The ripple effect of these efforts is clear: patrons come from across Indianapolis to feel seen, heard, and supported. Staff feel more connected, confident, and able to serve. And the library continues to grow—not just in size, but in purpose.
As the branch looks ahead, it remains committed to deepening its impact. In the words of Gregory Hill, this journey is about more than a designation.
“It’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement at RIT,” he said.
Inclusion is not a one-time event—it’s a practice. And at Fort Ben, it’s a promise being kept every day.
