Same Library, Enhanced Accessibility!
The library is open to everyone during our Sensory Friendly Hours and features a modified, more accessible environment.
What to expect during our Sensory Friendly Hours:
- Everyone is Welcome: All patrons are welcome to visit the library during our sensory friendly hours. While the environment in the library will be slightly altered to be more accessible for neurodivergent people, the collections and services will be the same. And, of course, neurodivergent people are encouraged to visit the library during any of our open hours.
- You Can Be Yourself: We won’t ever make you feel uncomfortable for seeking the sensory stimulation you need.
- Lowered Lights: Some lights in the library will be turned off to create a more relaxing experience. Please let us know if you are having a hard time seeing and we can turn some lights on.
- Less Activity: The library makes an effort during our Sensory Friendly Hours to limit activity in the building. Outside groups will not be permitted to reserve spaces in the library.
- Community Room for Quiet: For a quieter, calmer experience, please relax in the Community Room. We also have earplugs and headphones available.
- Children’s Room or YA Room for Activity: Libraries don’t have to be quiet! Movement and sound are encouraged in the Children’s and YA Rooms.
- Let us Know How You Feel Today: Please help yourself to a Sociability Sticker to let library staff and other patrons know what kind of interactions you would like.
- Fragrance Aware: Sunderland Public Library aims to become a fragrance aware facility. We are actively working to remove fragrances wherever possible. Please help us in these efforts by avoiding use of fragrances when visiting the library during Sensory Friendly Hours.
- Need Anything? Just Ask! We hope to have everything you need available and clearly labeled, but it isn’t always possible. Our staff are always happy to help you find what you need to be comfortable in the library.
- Respect Everyone’s Unique Needs: Everyone is welcome at Sunderland Public Library. If someone’s behavior inhibits your enjoyment of the library, please let a staff member know so we can work together to find a solution.
Are you visiting our library for the first time? Please take a look at our social story.
We also have a Sensory Toy Collection for you to explore.
Our Sensory Friendly Hours are a pilot program sponsored by the Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Libraries grant, an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) in collaboration with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL). This pilot program will end on April 30, 2026.
Are you enjoying our Sensory Friendly Hours and would you like to see them continue? Please share a testimonial with the Library or Town of Sunderland letting voters know that these hours are important to you. Please also reach out if you have a suggestion for how we can improve our Sensory Friendly Hours.