A Library Skills Program Serving Adults with Mental Retardation: An Interdisciplinary Approach

During the past decade, there has been a thrust, both socially and legally, to integrate adults with developmental disabilities, particularly those with mental retardation, into community life. Libraries, which are resources in the community for all citizens, can play a significant role in this integration. This article describes the format and outcome of a California-based library program for mentally retarded adults. It describes the materials developed, gives the contributions made by an interdisciplinary team, and discusses occupational therapy’s role in the implementation of this community program.