Austin Community College District’s (ACC) Military Families Center partnered with Austin PBS to bring a special slice of the Texas Book Festival to ACC Highland Campus on Sunday, November 9, 2025. The event focused on creating a welcoming and sensory-friendly experience for children and families who are neurodivergent, have sensory sensitivities, accessibility needs, or prefer a calm environment.
Dozens of children and adults gathered in the Highland Presentation Hall to welcome special guest Zach OHora, the creative mind behind the PBS KIDS show “Carl the Collector.” OHora shared a reading from his latest book and connected personally with families during a book signing.
The event also featured a special sensory-friendly screening of “Carl the Collector” episodes in an environment designed to be comfortable for all sensitivities and a meet-and-greet with Carl.
“The event showcased ACC’s commitment to inclusivity while also sparking the imagination of future Riverbats,“ said Vanessa Errico, ACC Military Families Center manager. “It was a success thanks to the strong collaboration between our campus and community partners.”
ACC’s Student Accessibility Services and NeuroBats of ACCess Autism ensured the event was accessible and impactful for every participant, and the Advanced Manufacturing Department contributed by creating custom fidgets as giveaways for the kids.