An Introduction to the Message and Graphics Libraries

How Do I Use the Message Library?

• The Message Library contains key pieces of information, or "messages" that were:
• Adapted from a review of state brochures
• Requested by parents
• Key messages are:
• In a clickable list within our Message Library
• Written using simple language at about the sixth grade reading level
• Not copyrighted
• Can be included or adapted to fit within your brochure
• To select a message for use in your brochure:
• Click on the category you want to use
• Highlight the message
• Copy it, then paste it into your document
• Messages may be adapted to meet the needs and requirements of your state

What if I Want to Include Disorder-Specific Information?

• Parents may be overwhelmed by a description of each of the disorders included in a screening panel
• However, if you would like to provide disorder-specific information in your brochure, you may refer to our parent fact sheets or our disorder descriptions

How Do I Use the Graphics Library?

• The Graphics Library contains key pictures and graphics that were:
• Adapted from a review of state brochures
• Requested by parents
• Graphics are in a clickable list within our Graphics Library
• To select graphics for use in your brochure:
• Click on the category you want to use
• Select an image and right click on it
• Click on the "save" button to save the image to your computer
• Insert it into your document

Who Created the Message and Graphics Libraries?

• The Libraries were created by the Screening, Technology, and Research in Genetics (STAR-G) Project
• The STAR-G Project is a multi-state project working to improve information about newborn screening and genetic testing
• The project is supported by a grant from the Maternal and Child Health Bureau, Health Resources and Service Administration Genetic Services Branch, MCH Project #:1 H46 MC 00189-03

How Were the Message and Graphics Libraries Created?

• Parent input was collected through:
• 3 focus groups in Alaska
• 3 focus groups in California
• 12 focus groups in Hawaii
• 3 focus groups in Oregon
• 4 focus groups in Washington
• 1,413 completed surveys in California
• 633 completed surveys in Hawaii
• Parents were of varying ethnic, educational, and socio-economic backgrounds
• All messages and graphics were approved by participating parents and our project Steering Committee

Where Can I Get More Information?

• For more information on our focus groups and surveys, please contact us.