Mayo library becomes an autism-friendly champion
WESTPORT Library has been awarded autism-friendly accreditation from the Westport Autism Friendly Town Champion Scheme.
The accreditation reinforces its commitment to create a welcoming, inclusive and accessible library for the whole community.
This significant milestone reflects extensive efforts to ensure that neurodiverse individuals and their families feel comfortable, supported and welcome at the library. Everyone is invited to experience these enhanced accommodations and services.
Library staff have completed specialised training to better understand and support the needs of neurodiverse patrons. The library has implemented the following sensory accommodations:
* A dedicated sensory tent providing a quiet retreat space
* An adjustable sensory light source in the tent
* Visual social stories to support navigation and understanding
* Provision of sound blocker headphones
* A selection of stim toys available on request at the desk
BECOME AN AUTISM-FRIENDLY CHAMPION
Westport Library is happy to support community members, businesses and organisations to join this important initiative. There is information available at the library on the plan to make Westport an autism-friendly town.
On Tuesday mornings during January, February and March a library staff member can help with specific information on becoming an autism-friendly champion in the community.
SENSORY FRIENDLY EVENTS
Westport Library will start 2026 with a pilot sensory friendly story time event specifically designed to accommodate different sensory needs. The current weekly events will be conducted with a sensitive approach to sensory needs, structure and helpful communication. These events provide opportunities for families to enjoy library programmes in a comfortable and understanding environment.
Welcoming the initiative, Mayo county librarian Austin Vaughan said: “Libraries are for all and becoming an autism-friendly champion is another positive step towards enacting the libraries core value of inclusivity.”
For more information about Westport Library’s autism-friendly services and upcoming sensory events, call (098) 25747 or email westportlibrary@mayococo.ie.