Moraga proclaims April Autism Acceptance and National Library Week; library reports increased use

The Moraga Town Council on April 22 read proclamations recognizing April 2026 as Autism Acceptance and Neurodiversity Celebration Month and designating April 19–25, 2026 as National Library Week.

Graham read the autism proclamation, which cites statistics included in the text such as an assertion that 15–20% of the population has a neurological difference, that “one in 68 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder,” and that more than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. Sabira Williams, program director from Social Connection, attended with a program colleague Justin and was thanked by council members for bringing the subject to the council’s attention. “This was a very important item for us to have this evening,” a council member said during remarks about lived experience and inclusion.

During the library proclamation and presentation, Amenda Kung, representing the Contra Costa County Commission and the Friends of the Moraga Library, summarized county and local library activity: circulation is up about 9% year-over-year across print and electronic formats; the Moraga branch is planning an interior refresh (fireside room, teen area, children’s area) funded by the Friends of the Moraga Library with installation expected in June; and outreach efforts include student-led robotics and coding classes, bilingual story times, and school partnerships to expand library-card access. Jane Low, a resident, announced a library book sale and said the sale typically raises about $4,000 for library programs.

The council and presenters emphasized early intervention and inclusion in the autism proclamation and celebrated library services that have high attendance and community engagement. The council took a photo with proclamation honorees and moved on to the rest of the agenda.