Sensory room launched at Tullamore library

A new sensory room at Tullamore Library was officially launched by Offaly County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Declan Harvey yesterday (Wednesday).

The event also marked the unveiling of a new 'Sensory Offaly Collection' that's being made available across the county's libraries.

These new resources are aimed at supporting people with additional needs, their families and caregivers

The sensory room in Tullamore is described as "an enclosed space with great potential for self-led sensory experiences."

It contains a light-up bubble tube, soft-glow cubes, a projector, and a "cosy nook" with LED lighting.

The room can be booked, from Tuesday, May 3, by contacting Tullamore Library.

Offaly Libraries' Sensory Offaly Collection, meanwhile, has two strands; the Sensory Offaly Book Collection and the Sensory Offaly Toys and Equipment Collection.

The Sensory Offaly Book Collection contains fiction and non-fiction on a range of topics aimed at supporting people with additional needs.

The collection is spread across Tullamore, Birr, Edenderry and Clara libraries and can be borrowed by all library patrons.

The Sensory Offaly Toys and Equipment Collection comprises items selected to support people in the development of fine motor, gross motor, social, communication, and life skills.

It is suitable for people with disabilities, additional needs and learning challenges, and can be accessed by registering for a Sensory Offaly library card.

This card may be obtained at any branch of Offaly Libraries by presenting photo ID, proof of address, and a letter of referral from a health care professional. Teachers and SNAs may also obtain a Sensory Offaly card with a referral letter from their school principal.

Up to three items at a time may be borrowed, and items can be requested via the county's library branches.

These resources were co-funded by Offaly County Council, the Department of Community and Rural Development, and Laois Offaly CYPSC.