Topic 3: Sensory Spaces

To provide for library users who need sensation to feel comfortable or to de-escalate an emotional state, libraries can provide "sensory rooms," of which there are many examples. The goal is to provide a variety of sensory experiences. Some ideas include:

• Beanbag chairs
• Rocking chairs
• Toys and objects made up of a variety of textures such as sandpaper, carpet, feathers, fabrics, etc.
• Fidget devices
• Calming music (relatively quiet)
• Dim lighting
• Light shows, light patterns, color-changing ambiance
• Carpet squares of different types and textures
• Tactile books
• Weighted vests or lap pads
• Yoga balls and other chairs that allow for movement

An example of a sensory room is featured in this video which was created by a young man so that other people with autism could benefit from its relaxing qualities from their own computers. You will notice that he has used soothing music in a New Age style (multiple digital sounds), colored lights reflecting from crinkled aluminum foil backgrounds, fiberoptic light strings, bubble tubes, picture scenes being projected onto walls, and fingers touching all of these things.

If your library can afford an even more structured "sensory room," one that can become part of your library programs, this article and video published by Edutopia, "Sensory Rooms 101" serves as a resource. It is recommended that you get consultation from service providers, special educators, even parents and children with autism to help plan the space, equipment and use of the room. If your library wishes to use this idea, you will need to bring in an occupational therapist during special events and programs for students with autism to help guide them through the sensory room experience for a designated time period before their storytime, autism-friendly browsing time, lesson or activity. Such an experience has had a positive effect on the overall well-being of students in a school setting, including their ability to subsequently focus and manage their behavior during the lesson or activity after their time in the sensory room.

If your library can provide a computer station in a quiet location that is separate from others, this could also help minimize overstimulation for your library users with autism. For children, play areas that have minimal clutter and lighting would be ideal.

To be an autism-friendly library, consider the sensory needs of people with autism by creating designated areas that have their needs in mind; it can be done on a low budget, and the possibilities are limitless!