May 8, 2025

AIDE Canada Library Brings Autism Resources to Every Corner of the Country

Whether you're a parent seeking support, an educator, clinician, or simply someone who wants to better understand autism, AIDE Canada’s library has something for you—and it’s completely free.  

The Autism and/or Intellectual Disability Knowledge Resource Exchange Network (AIDE) library is a national resource dedicated to making information on autism and related disabilities accessible to everyone in Canada.

“We offer free access to over 3,500 autism-related books, ebooks, and audiobooks,” said Allison Hill, a librarian at AIDE Canada. “We have resources for autistic people of all ages, from early childhood to adulthood.”

The library’s collection is carefully curated and regularly updated, featuring resources in both English and French.

The in-person library is located at the Pacific Autism Family Network in Richmond, British Columbia. However, you don’t need to be located nearby to take advantage of its resources.

AIDE Library located at the Pacific Autism Family Network in Richmond, BC.

One of the standout features of the AIDE library is its Borrow by Mail service, which allows users to have physical books shipped directly to their homes, no matter where in Canada they live.  

“Our free Borrow by Mail service can be a game changer, helping to remove barriers to accessing high-quality information,” Hill explained. “This is especially true for people in rural and remote communities, and for anyone with limited access to services.” 

You can borrow up to 10 books for six weeks, and every package includes a prepaid return label for hassle-free returns.

In addition to its mail service, the AIDE Canada library offers a robust collection of more than 600 ebooks and audiobooks. 

Because many of the materials in the AIDE library are hard to find in public libraries, or expensive to purchase, its completely free model is especially appreciated.

Alongside the library, AIDE Canada has a bilingual website that offers a broad range of trusted and peer-reviewed resources. From webinars and toolkits to videos and articles, the website and provides valuable knowledge tools for Canadians from coast to coast.

Hill says that they often hear how empowering those resources can be, with many patrons feeling more confident advocating for themselves and their loved ones after using them.

“The library is publicly funded and free for everyone in Canada to use,” said Hill. “Anyone interested in learning more about autism is welcome. We have plenty of materials that can help deepen your understanding.”

Whether you're seeking answers, connection, or simply more understanding, the AIDE Canada Library is a trusted place to start. It’s a powerful, free resource that more Canadians are discovering and benefiting from every day.

How to Access the AIDE Canada Library

📍In Person

Visit the AIDE Canada Library in person at the Pacific Autism Family Network:
3688 Cessna Drive, Richmond, BC V7B 1C7

Hours of Operation:
Monday to Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed for lunch daily from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

📚 Borrow by Mail
Getting started is easy:

  1. Sign up for a free library account at library.aidecanada.ca.
  1. Log in and add your mailing address to your profile.
  1. Browse the online catalogue, click Place Hold, and select Ship to my address.

You can borrow up to 10 books at a time for six weeks. Each shipment includes a prepaid return label—just repackage the item, attach the label, and drop it off at any Canada Post mailbox or post office.

📱 Ebooks & Audiobooks
Explore the digital collection at aidecanada.overdrive.com or on the Libby app.

📬 Need Help?
Email library@aidecanada.ca for assistance or personalized book recommendations.