Sensory Library

• Social Story/visual stories - visiting the library
• Toy and sensory resource collection
• Sensory Book stock
• Reader Pens

Social Stories/Visual Stories

Kilkenny Library Service provides a wide range of resources to support those with sensory needs across our community and are committed to making our libraries welcoming, comfortable and accessible for everyone that may find busy or noisy spaces challenging.

Visiting the library

All of our libraries have a sensory box with small calming toys that children can use during their visit. Ear defenders  are also available for children who are sensitive to noise. 
Each library has Lulls Headphones available with pre‑loaded white noise and relaxing music. Just ask any staff member if you’d like to use these during your visit

Toy and sensory resource collection

Our toys and sensory resources are carefully chosen to support your child’s development, including gross motor skills, fine motor skills, play and life skills, and sensory and tactile learning.
We hold our collections in Ferrybank  and Mayfair Library, and resources you need can be sent to your local library for you.
To borrow from this collection, you need a Toy and Sensory Resource Library Card. To register for this, you must complete a membership form and provide a referral letter from an appropriate professional. Teachers and SNAs need a letter from their school principal.
You can borrow two items for three weeks, and extend this in some cases, and items can be ordered in advance.

This collection is funded by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs under the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation.

Sensory Book stock

Our Sensory Book Collection includes over 300 books on autism and sensory needs, suitable for parents, children, teachers and carers. These are available to everyone through your local Kilkenny library. This was kindly funded by Dormant Accounts Fund.

Magic Tables

Our Magic Tables offer a selection of interactive light games which are projected onto a table/ surface. Designed to support sensory needs and stimulate memory, the images respond to hand and arm movements, stimulating physical and cognitive activity as well as encouraging engagement through games, puzzles and calming activities. 
Magic tables are available in Loughboy, Mayfair, Graiguenamanagh, Ferrybank and Castlecomer Libraries.

Reader Pens

Reader Pens read words and full lines of text aloud for independent reading. These digital highlighters can be helpful if you have dyslexia, difficulty with reading or pronunciation, are an English language learner or have vision problems. The Reader pen reads text out loud and has built-in dictionaries for better understanding.
We have 26 x Reader pens for borrowing in our branch libraries.