Waterford Libraries receive funding to upgrade sensory facilities in 4 branches
Waterford Libraries receive over €30,000 in funding to upgrade
sensory facilities in Dungarvan, Lismore, Tramore and Central Libraries.
Following their successful application for funding under the national scheme announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring in December 2019, Waterford Libraries will receive an extra €15,680 in grant aid for the installation of new sensory equipment in library branches. This is in addition to the 2019 approved funding for installation of two “Tovertafel” magic tables in Dungarvan and Lismore (€15,680 (2019)).
At the announcement of the funding, Minister Ring said “I am very aware of the struggles some people face living with autism or learning differences. I want these people and their families to see our libraries as a safe and welcoming space for them, somewhere they can have fun in and learn.”
A Tovertafel is a unique piece of equipment where through the projection of light and shapes onto a flat surface, children and adults with additional sensory needs are enabled and encouraged to interact and enjoy the experience.
Waterford Libraries will install a magic table in Dungarvan in April, and this will be followed by the installation of a magic table in Lismore as part of the extension of the My Open Library (8am–10pm opening hours) to the Lismore branch. This additional funding will also allow tables to be installed in both Central and Tramore Libraries.
Waterford City & County Librarian, Jane Cantwell said “We are delighted to receive this additional funding which will help us open up our libraries to an even broader range of people including carers, people living with dementia, autism and those with other learning issues. We believe that our public libraries should be open to and relevant to everyone. Any services or equipment that help make this happen are very welcome.”
