YOUNGSTOWN—The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC)’s Sensory Room, opens a new window at the Boardman Library, 7680 Glenwood Ave., will open to the public on July 31 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
A press tour will be held from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. on July 31. Interested members of the media should RSVP to MHenderson@libraryvisit.org or 330-259-3398.
The Sensory Room includes approachable play materials like colorful displays to create a visually stimulating and soothing ambiance, soothing gentle sounds or silence to reduce sensory overload, and tactile stimulation like textured objects for sensory integration. It is intended to be an inclusive space that accommodates individuals with sensory processing differences, autism, ADHD, anxiety, or other sensory-related challenges. It serves as a quiet retreat where visitors can regulate their sensory experiences and find comfort and calmness, making it an excellent resource for both children and adults who may benefit from sensory support.
“The inclusion of a sensory room in the Library aligns with our commitment to providing diverse and accessible services, ensuring that all members of the community feel welcome and supported,” said Pam Brockway, Public Service Manager of Programming and Youth Services. “It is our hope that the Sensory Room fosters an environment of understanding and empathy and promotes the Library as a place that addresses the unique needs of its patrons.”
The Sensory Room will also be available for 45-minute reservations beginning August 1. The Room is open from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (ends at 6:45 p.m.) Monday through Thursday. The hours are 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (ends at 3:45 p.m.) on Friday and Saturday. Please contact the Boardman Library for information about reserving the Sensory Room, opens a new window. Shoes are not permitted in the space, and socks are required.
Sensory Room, opens a new window drop-in tours will also be offered on the following dates for those who want a staff-led tour of the space:
- Wednesday, August 2, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
- Friday, August 4, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
- Monday, August 7, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Friday, August 11, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
No registration is required for the open house or the tours, and patrons can drop in any time during the drop-in tour times.
The Library received a $50,000 grant from the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), awarded by the State Library of Ohio, to create the Sensory Room and offer additional programming and Library services for the special needs community across Mahoning County. PLYMC also received $14,000 in donations from The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, The Thomases Family Endowment, The Boardman Rotary Club, and The Boardman Community Foundation. The Friends of the Library also donated $14,000 for the outdoor playscape.
Follow PLYMC on social media (Facebook, opens a new window, Twitter, opens a new window, Instagram, opens a new window, and TikTok, opens a new window) and check www.libraryvisit.org, opens a new window for updates. The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) has served the Mahoning Valley since 1880 when the Youngstown Library Association was officially created. With 15 branches across Mahoning County, including our Main Library in downtown Youngstown, the PLYMC is well known for signature services and programs like Summer Discovery and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. The mission and values of PLYMC to “connect, inspire, and enrich” position the Library to serve our communities by preparing children for kindergarten, promoting early literacy, assisting job seekers, connecting Valley residents to technology, and providing resources for small businesses.
