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A Sensory-Friendly Library: Creating Inclusive Spaces for All

Neurodiversity and the Power of Inclusive Community Spaces

Libraries have long been at the heart of communities, serving as spaces for learning, growth, and connection. Moreover, to truly fulfill this role, it’s essential to recognize the diverse needs of visitors to libraries. Therefore, this is a library’s story of fostering inclusion.

In recent years, the Burnaby Public Library has made a concerted effort to engage more deeply with the community. Furthermore, by reaching beyond the library’s walls, they’ve prioritized listening to the needs and perspectives of our patrons. Importantly, this shift in focus recognizes that the community is the true expert in determining how the library can best serve its members.

For instance, one such group is the neurodiverse community, individuals who think and learn differently. To better understand and support their needs, the Burnaby Public Library embarked on a journey to listen and learn directly from its community members. Huge thanks to that library for being interviewed by us and contributing to this blog post with their story.

A pivotal moment in the Burnaby Public Library’s journey to inclusivity arose when a patron, Denise, shared her family’s experience. Her son, Theo, is neurodivergent, and the traditional library environment—often perceived as quiet and still—presented challenges. Moreover, Denise expressed concerns about potential judgment towards Theo’s behavior and her parenting style. Importantly, this feedback underscored the need for the library to create a more welcoming and inclusive space for neurodiverse individuals.

*Names changed to protect privacy.

Cameron Public Library Entrance
Burnably Public Library: Former Cameron Branch Entrance

Understanding Sensory Sensitivity and Overload for Libraries

What is Sensory Sensitivity?

Sensory sensitivity is when someone is overly responsive to sensory input. This means they might be bothered by sounds, lights, smells, textures, or tastes that most people don’t notice. For instance, it’s like having your senses turned up too high.

What is Sensory Overload?

Sensory overload happens when there’s too much sensory input for someone to handle. In addition, it can feel overwhelming and cause anxiety, frustration, or even a meltdown. For example, imagine being in a crowded, noisy room with bright lights and loud music – that’s sensory overload.

The Connection Between Sensory Issues and Neurodiversity

Many people with neurodiverse conditions, such as autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder (SPD), experience sensory sensitivity or overload. However, it’s important to remember that anyone can have sensory issues, regardless of their neurotype.

Other Conditions Linked to Sensory Sensitivity

Furermore, sensory differences and disorders can also be associated with:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Post-concussion syndrome
  • Hearing loss
  • Dementia
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Intellectual disabilities
  • Long COVID
  • Low vision
  • Traumatic brain injury

It’s essential to recognize that sensory sensitivity and overload can happen at any age and may be temporary or permanent.

The Importance of Libraries in Communities

Libraries are places of learning, discovery, and community. Moreover, they should be welcoming to everyone, including those with sensory sensitivities. A sensory-friendly library creates a calm and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable. The Burnaby Public Library is a fantastic example!

a large open space in a library with many rows of tables, counters and library patrons

Benefits of Sensory-Friendly Libraries:

  • Increased accessibility: Libraries can become more inclusive for people with sensory differences.
  • Improved library experience: Patrons with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the library without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Enhanced community engagement: Libraries can become a central hub for the neurodiverse community and people with disabilities.
  • Positive public image: Demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Steps to Create a Sensory-Friendly Library

1. Understanding Your Community’s Needs:

  • Conduct surveys and interviews: Gather feedback from patrons with sensory sensitivities.
  • Partner with local organizations: For instance, collaborate with autism groups, sensory processing disorder support networks, and other relevant organizations.
  • Educate staff: Provide training on sensory processing, sensory overload, and how to create a welcoming environment. Sensory Friendly Solutions has training for you! Get Sensory Friendly Training

2. Sensory-Friendly Design Elements:

  • Quiet zones: Designated areas for relaxation and focus.
  • Soft lighting: Reduce glare and create a calming atmosphere.
  • Sound-absorbing materials: Use carpets, curtains, and acoustic panels to minimize noise.
  • Sensory tools: For example, provide fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, and weighted lap pads.
  • Flexible seating: Offer a variety of seating options to accommodate different needs.

3. Sensory-Friendly Programming:

  • Sensory-friendly storytimes: Adapt storytelling to reduce sensory overload.
  • Sensory-friendly events: Host events with reduced sensory input.
  • Sensory-friendly workshops: Offer workshops on sensory processing and coping strategies. You can even white label Sensory Friendly Solution’s Training!
2 children and a parent in a sensory friendly library space with a bean bag chair and table

Welcoming the Neurodiverse Community with a Sensory Friendly Library Experience

The Burnaby Public Library was and is committed to creating an inclusive environment that accommodates the needs of all patrons, including those who identify as neurodiverse. As a result, in order to achieve this, the library fostered strong partnerships with the neurodiverse community to gain a deeper understanding of their unique experiences and requirements.

For example, by actively listening to the community, the library has identified key areas for improvement, such as the provision of sensory tools to support individuals with sensory sensitivities. In response, initiatives like offering weighted lap pads have been implemented to create a more comfortable library experience.

In addition, their collaboration with the Autism Society of British Columbia has led to the development of sensory-friendly programs and resources. The Sensory Friendly Library Hour is one example of a program designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for children and their families.

Through ongoing collaboration with the neurodiverse community, the Burnaby Public Library strives to create a welcoming and accessible space for all patrons.

Kim and Andrew, library staff
Kim and Andrew, Burnaby Public Library staff

Sensory-Friendly Libraries: More Solutions

Many libraries are taking steps to become more sensory-friendly. For example, some libraries offer sensory kits with items like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and weighted lap pads. Others have created quiet reading areas or sensory-friendly storytime programs!

Read more about sensory friendly tools in our blogs:

Feature Sensory Friendly Library Traditional Library Experience
Lighting soft, adjustable often bright or harsh
Noise Level specific quiet areas; areas where some noise allowed, sound dampening materials added generally quiet
Seating a large variety of seating options, e.g., rocking chairs, bean bag chairs, etc. limited seating
Activities sensory-friendly programs standard programming
Accessiblity sensory tools available: fidgets, noise cancelling headphones limited accessibility features for sensory differences
Comparing Sensory Friendly Libraries with a Traditional Library Experience

FAQs About Sensory-Friendly Libraries

What is a sensory-friendly library?

A sensory-friendly library adapts its environment and programs to better support individuals with sensory sensitivities or those prone to sensory overload. This can include quieter spaces, dimmer lighting, and tailored programs.

How can I support my child with sensory sensitivities at the library?

You can prepare your child by showing them photos or videos of the library beforehand. During your visit, plan for sensory or movement breaks, bring along sensory tools, and communicate your child’s needs to library staff to ensure a more comfortable experience.

What’s the difference between sensory sensitivity and sensory overload?

Sensory sensitivity is heightened responsiveness to sensory input, while sensory overload occurs when there is too much sensory input for a person to process, leading to discomfort or distress.

If You Love Libraries, We Guess You Love Reading! Want Book Recommendations?

Check out our blog post: Unveiling the World of Sensory Issues: A Guide to the Best Books on Sensory Processing and Sensitivities.

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Library Experience

Finally, we hope the Burnaby Public Library has inspired you to make your event or location sensory-friendly.

Making your public library, school library, or reading space at your business sensory-friendly is a crucial step towards inclusivity. Sensory Friendly Solutions offers comprehensive training, certification, and consulting services to help you create welcoming spaces for everyone.

Start with Sensory-Friendly 101

Gain the foundational knowledge to transform your library into an inclusive and welcoming space for all visitors. Our Sensory-Friendly 101 Course provides practical strategies to start your journey with the basics.

Ready to move from page to action?  

Audience

  • People with sensory differences
  • Parents & Educators
  • Event Planners & Business Owners
  • Healthcare Professionals & Caregivers
  • The general public

Duration

Less than 2 hours

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Learn from Our Founder

Watch a short video from our founder, Christel Seeberger, to understand how our Training Membership can help libraries and other organizations create sensory-friendly environments through a range of courses and resources.

Explore Our Top Blogs for Organizations

Looking for expert advice to make your library or organization more sensory-friendly? Check out our top blogs designed to help organizations foster a more inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

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