Launched during Neurodiversity Awareness Week, Sensory Supports aid all patrons
West Vancouver, B.C.—Feeling a little overstimulated at the Library? Launched during Neurodiversity Awareness Week (March 16-22), the West Vancouver Memorial Library’s new Sensory Support project provides sensory supports to borrow in-library!
The Library can be a highly stimulating environment for anyone, especially neurodivergent patrons. Bright lights, noise levels, and crowded areas can cause anxiety and emotional dysregulation. Some may find it difficult to focus on reading and studying, even in quiet and calm environments.
Created in partnership with Live Educate Transform Society (LET’s), WVML’s EDIA Committee identified and purchased items that can support a variety of sensory needs. From sunglasses and noise cancelling headphones to dampen sensory inputs, to stim tools and fidget toys to help with self-regulation, these items are available for all patrons to borrow, including youth and adults, no diagnosis required.
“My favourite sensory tool is the rubber fidget stone,” shares librarian Andrea Davidson. “It is small, quiet, and fits in the palm of your hand. Rubbing the textured stone really helps me focus.”
Supporting Sensory Accessibility at the Library is one of the ways WVML is removing and preventing barriers to access, after committing to an Accessibility Plan in alignment with the Accessible British Columbia Act.
“A recent survey of public libraries across BC revealed that a lack of sensory supports was one of the most common accessibility barriers faced by library patrons,” explains Davidson. “We are making sensory supports available at all service desks, programs, and events so that every patron can thrive. We are excited to see our community explore, play, and find joy using sensory tools at the Library.”
Patrons interested in borrowing a sensory support can visit any of the WVML’s service desks, or ask a staff member during any Library program. Community members can learn more about Accessibility at the Library on the WVML’s Accessibility Page.