Sensory room opens at Ballymahon Library

Longford County Council has officially opened a new sensory room at Ballymahon Library, marking a significant step forward in making library services more accessible to people throughout the county.

The dedicated space offers a calm, supportive environment for people with sensory processing needs, autism, and other conditions that can make traditional library settings challenging.

Funding for the project was provided by Longford County Council. Multisensory Ireland designed and fitted the sensory room project with Healthy Longford playing a key role through its ongoing collaboration with Longford Libraries. The initiative forms part of a collective response across the county to create supportive, inclusive environments for all families.

"By creating spaces that work for people with different needs, we're sending a clear message that everyone belongs here" said Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council. Cllr Garry Murtagh "libraries sit at the heart of our communities, and this facility ensures no family is left outside that circle."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said the local authority recognises that traditional spaces "don't work for everyone" and the new sensory room is "a practical recognition of that reality." He added that it allows families who might previously have found library visits difficult the opportunity to access books, resources, and community connection. "That matters enormously, both for the people who will use this space and for the broader community. Inclusion isn't an add-on – it's fundamental to how we deliver services" said Mr. Mahon.

The opening was attended by representatives from Ballymahon Vocational School, the Children and Young People's Services Committee (CYPSC), Longford Community Resources, and the Public Participation Network, alongside students and staff who will benefit from the new facility.