Sensory Kits Now Available for Use at Owatonna Public Library
Goal of Kits is to Make Neurodiverse Users Feel More Comfortable Using Library
Owatonna Public Library has three new Sensory Kits available for in-library use. The kits were made possible in part to a grant received from SELS (Southeast Library System). According to Psychology Today, "sensory processing disorder—also known as SPD or sensory integration disorder—is a term describing a collection of challenges that occur when the senses fail to respond properly to the outside world." This can cause struggles in coping with day-to-day life and tasks, including going to public places where a person may deal with "sensory overload." Many children and adults who have sensory integration challenges also may be autistic, neurodivergent, or have a variety of other developmental disabilities.
Owatonna Public Library staff felt it was extremely important to help all users with sensory challenges feel welcome in the library. The Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Grant through SELS gave staff the opportunity to get started on this initiative. Library Director Mark Blando, said, “When this idea was brought to me by Cassie (Adult Services Librarian Cassie Gilgenbach), I thought it was just another example of how the library cares for all its users. We want to make the library a safe and comfortable place and these kits help in doing that.”
The new sensory kits at the library hold a variety of tools to help patrons regulate as needed during their visit. When a patron wants to use a kit, they ask for one at the front desk. Two backpacks are available in Children's Services, and one backpack is available in Adult Services. No check-out is required; the kits and tools must stay in the library while being used. Once finished, patrons simply return the tools and kit to the front desk, and staff will prepare the items for the next patron to use. Items in the kit include headphones, sunglasses, a variety of fidgets and visual tools, communication cards, a weighted lap pad, and more.