Frequently Asked Questions

A sensory room is a safe and calming space designed specifically for individuals with autism and other sensory challenges and/or special education needs. A sensory room offers a controlled sensory-focused environment that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of an individual. A sensory room can help address an individual’s unique sensory issues, whether they’re seeking more sensory input or looking for a calming space.

The Sensory Room is available by appointment beginning August 1, 2023. Appointments are 45 minutes and begin at the top of each hour, starting at 10 a.m. and ending one hour before closing.

Available hours are:

Monday through Thursday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last reservation ends at 6:45)
Friday and Saturday – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (last reservation ends at 3:45)

Call the Boardman Library at 330-744-8636 to schedule an appointment. Walk-in appointments may be available during Sensory Room hours; you can inquire at the Boardman Librarian’s desk about availability.

Appointments can be made up to 1 week in advance.

Appointments are for 45 minutes and are limited to one appointment per day.

The Sensory Room is limited to 8 people.

This unique space was created with the needs of those with sensory processing disorders, autism, dementia, and learning disabilities in mind, but is a space where everyone is welcome.

All minors and guests of any age with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities which affect decision-making skills or render supervision necessary must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver at all times.

A current library card is required to book the space. No shoes are permitted in the space. Socks are required. If socks are needed, there is a limited supply available for purchase at the desk for $1 each pair.

The room features equipment and toys centered around engaging the senses and utilizes fiber optic colors, interactive sounds, and a variety of tactile experiences. Equipment includes a bubble tube, fiber optic lighting, an interactive floor projection system, an interactive touch panel and more.

Please help our Sensory Room run smoothly by cleaning up and ending sessions on time. Report any concerns to Library staff before leaving. No food or drink is permitted in the Sensory room.

We look forward to seeing you!

No, all items must remain inside the Sensory Room.

To maintain an organized and tidy space, visitors are asked to put away items before ending their session. The room is cleaned regularly, and visitors are encouraged to place items they feel need sanitizing in the bin located inside the room.

All new visitors will receive a short orientation at the beginning of their reserved time. Library staff will be available to answer questions. Written instructions for equipment are available in the room. Note that the Sensory Room may be monitored from time to time, but it is not under continuous monitoring by Library staff while in use.