April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD). Autism is a global concern and World Autism Awareness Day “shines a bright light on autism as a growing global health crisis…help[s] to increase and develop world knowledge of the autism epidemic…and celebrates the unique talents and skills of persons with autism.”

On the evenings of April 1 and 2, 2011, prominent buildings across North America and the world — including the Empire State Building in New York City and the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada — will turn their lights blue to raise awareness for autism and to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day on Saturday, April 2. Find out more about more about autism and how you can “Light it Up Blue” to raise public awareness of autism.

In keeping with the spirit of WAAD, you may want to check out one of these recently published books on autism, all of which available from the NOBLE catalog.

• The earthquake in Japan — News stories and resources from Boston.com
• 2011 Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami — The Google Crisis Response Center maintains this site with links to emergency information, news sources, a Person Finder database, interactive maps, donation sites and other resources.
• Japan Earthquake Information — Background and historical information and other resources from the Earthquake Hazards Program of the USGS (U.S. Geological Survey)

Added to the St. Patrick’s Day Page:

• St. Patrick’s Day Recipes — St. Patrick’s day recipes include festive green treats and Irish favorites like corned beef and cabbage from Food.com

On March 11, Japan was struck by a powerful earthquake, followed by a tsunami. Learn more about these events, and what causes earthquakes and tsunamis.

• Earthquakes for Kids — Learn more about earthquakes from the scientists at the USGS
• Weather Wiz Kids: Earthquakes — Information and pictures that show how earthquakes and tsunamis happen