New ‘Sensory Pod’ among latest library offerings
With all of Cavan’s branch libraries now open to the public, Cavan County Library Service is preparing to unveil a host of new features at Johnston Central Library including a special ‘sensory pod’.
The customised sensory pod is a safe space designed to help individuals with sensory impairments, special educational needs, and other learning difficulties and those on the Autism spectrum. It is also suitable for use by those dealing with anxiety issues, providing a quiet and calm space.
The Farnham Street Library Headquarters will also feature a portable Magic Table unit, which comprises a projector that displays pre-loaded interactive software on to any surface below.
These interactive games and images have been specifically designed for people with mid to late-stage dementia and children and adults with sensory issues.
The Johnston Central Library team has also installed a self-service tablet lending device, which enables independent access to hand-held tablets. This will grant library users access to approved programmes and games, and can also be used to print documents at the self-service printers in the library.
County Librarian Emma Clancy said that, while branches are offering a browsing service only with plenty of new titles to choose from, the library team is looking forward to extending their range of services over the coming weeks.
“Today’s public libraries are focal points within their communities and the provision of these exciting new technologies will attract existing and new users of all ages to the library in Cavan Town, and will form part of an initial phase of a wider roll-out of new innovative ICT facilities and services,” said Ms Clancy.
These new services will complement the range of online services that Cavan County Library Service has offered throughout lockdown. A recently launched digital literacy programme has proved extremely popular.
TTRS – Touch-Type, Read and Spell – is an award-winning multi-sensory course that teaches typing, reading and spelling.
This free software programme is aimed at children, young adults, adults, along with anyone with diverse learning needs. Contact your local library or visit:
www.cavanlibrary.ie
“Other highlights coming up in the library calendar include the Summer Stars programme and the launch of the eagerly-anticipated Summer Reading List,” she added.
Director of Services, Housing, Libraries & Cultural Services, Human Resources & Corporate Services, Eoin Doyle said: “This enhancement to Cavan Library’s infrastructure has been made possible due to investment by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Account Funding and the Creative Ireland programme.
“Equally, the support of the elected members of Cavan County Council in allocating a contribution to the funding demonstrates an ongoing commitment to and belief in public libraries as centres of engagement and learning in the community.”
All of Cavan County Library Service’s branch libraries are now open for business, some with revised opening hours – please check online at:
www.cavanlibrary.ie for updated information.