In the heart of Durham County, the public library has become more than just a repository of books; it has transformed into a beacon of inclusivity and innovation, touching community members' lives in previously unimagined ways.
The Power of Sensory Spaces
Durham County Library has created a Multi Sensory environment on the fourth floor of its main library. This reservation-only space provides an immersive and interactive experience through sensory elements such as sound, light, touch, and smell. The room can be used for therapy, teaching, or play, and the sound and light can be adjusted to meet the visitors' needs. The room includes special interactive features such as a fiber optic waterfall, an aromatherapy diffuser, music, sequin, marble tactile panels, and a projector that casts gently moving images and patterns onto the walls. The space also has multiple seating options and adjustable lights and sounds. During November 2023, the Community Engagement Administrator, Sarah Alverson, reported that the Multi Sensory Environment had received 67 reservations and an average of 90 hours' worth of bookings. Alverson also mentioned that the space had been utilized well and highly appreciated by the visitors. Providing this space has had a significant impact, as many families who had never previously visited the library are now using the space regularly. The library staff has observed a recurrence of family names in reservations, thus significantly impacting these families' use of the room.
The Main Library also has a sensory calming room open to the public. This room provides a peaceful environment where people can take a break and relax. It's equipped with soothing equipment, fidget toys, and furniture that cater to different sensory needs, creating a calm atmosphere. The Community Engagement Administrator Sarah Alverson is at the forefront of this transformative initiative. Her dedication and passion have made the library a haven for families with special sensory needs. A sensory calming room has added another layer of accessibility, providing a quiet space for those needing respite. As Alverson puts it, “The idea is if somebody comes into the library space and just needs a minute, they’re overwhelmed, there’s too much going on, overstimulated, that’s what that room is for.”
The children’s section includes an inclusive play area with a LiteZilla, a sizable interactive light display. The light wall in the inclusive play area is a big hit with families who come to visit. Children enjoy it so much that they often don't want to leave for storytime or to go home. The library system offers a sensory mobile unit for its branches as well as sensory bins and kits for checkout, while the Southwest Regional Library has a semi-permanent sensory space. The sensory spaces and services of Durham County Library have been funded in part by an LSTA grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
The library's engagement with sensory spaces and services has fostered a positive shift in its approach to the disability community. Previously, individuals with disabilities were hesitant to visit the library due to concerns about potential overstimulation or a meltdown. However, with the creation of dedicated spaces for these individuals, the library has demonstrated a strong willingness to adapt and meet the needs of all community members. As a result, the library has seen a significant increase in visitors from the disability community. It has been able to expand its programs to serve this vital population group better. People are absolutely loving the sensory spaces at the Main Library! The feedback from individuals and families using them has been overwhelmingly positive. It's great to see how much these spaces are appreciated and how they make a difference in people's lives. According to Sarah Alverson, the most common comments that staff members hear are from people who express surprise at the existence of a space like this at the library or gratitude at being able to access the library's facilities for free.
Providing inclusive and exclusive programs for the disability community is crucial for creating an accessible and welcoming community space. Inclusive programs ensure everyone can participate and feel included, regardless of their abilities. Exclusive programs tailored specifically for people with disabilities offer a unique opportunity to learn new skills and connect with others with similar experiences.
Durham County Library is recognized as a leading and innovative library for providing sensory spaces for the community. Other library systems have identified them as valuable resources and sought guidance on creating their sensory spaces. The library can share their experiences, both positive and negative, to help guide others in creating their own sensory spaces. Thanks to their ongoing conversations, they have become a trusted library for library systems needing guidance.
Durham County Library has transformed itself by creating innovative sensory spaces that cater to the diverse needs of its members, setting an excellent example of how libraries can adapt to meet the changing needs of their communities.
Explore More Library Sensory Spaces
Several public libraries in North Carolina offer sensory programming to their visitors, such as sensory rooms, storytimes, and kits. Libraries, including Chapel Hill Public Library, Cumberland County Public Library, Granville County Library System, Iredell County Public Library, and Wayne County Public Library, provide these services and activities.
Have you ever visited a sensory room, used a sensory kit, or attended a sensory storytime at your local library? Share your experience in the comments below.