Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums has been awarded the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
This certification highlights the library and museums’ commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every visitor, especially autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals and their families.
As part of the certification process, HPLM also received an on-site review from IBCCES to create sensory guides and provide the library and museums with recommendations to continue enhancing accessibility.
“It’s important to us that people with autism and other sensory needs feel truly welcome at Spiegel Grove. We want them to have an entertaining and educational experience in a space where they feel safe and valued,” said Christie Weininger, HPLM executive director.
In addition to autism training and certification, the library and museums also provide a written tour of the Hayes Home for any individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, available at https://www.rbhayes.org/clientuploads/PDFs/Tours/Hearing_Impaired_Tour_2025.pdf.
To further support inclusivity efforts, HPLM is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. This app provides individuals with a variety of disabilities real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces, and tailored recommendations. By connecting users to accessible locations worldwide, the app helps ensure seamless, enjoyable experiences for everyone.
IBCCES also provides access to resources such as AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, free online tools for families that list certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) requirements.
The autism credentialing for the Hayes Presidential Library & Museums was funded through sponsorships by title sponsors Charles & Jane Moyer; additional funding sponsors The Andersons, John M. & Sue Hayes; Kiwanis Club of Fremont, Brian Koenig and Walmart - Fremont #1429.
