Stories to share, resources to borrow

Public libraries, big or small, play an important role in connecting people to what they need when they need it the most.

Whether it’s borrowing an item or trying something new, we take pride in providing a supportive space for everyone to learn and grow!

Visual, Sensory and Fidget Tool

Bags available to borrow

A new addition to our collection are Visual, Sensory and Fidget Tool Bags for those who are living with autism, and their families and caregivers. Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences.

We now know that there is not one autism but many types, caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each person with autism (Autism Speaks Canada — https://www.autismspeaks.ca).

The bags, originally developed by Halifax Public Libraries and Autism Nova Scotia, are available in library regions throughout Nova Scotia. They contain items that can be used if an individual is overwhelmed by their environment and needs a quiet activity. The bags can also provide an opportunity to try out items from various vendors to see if they are helpful before purchasing them.

There are three bags available to borrow. The first, a Visual Bag, contains a Time Timer MOD Clock and Dry Erase Board, a one- and 10-minute Sand Timer, a Gro Clock, Dual Power timers, a Daily Schedule example and a First Then Sample. There is also a Sensory Bag that has Harmony Rollers, Sensory Bubbles, a Spiral Tube, noise-cancelling headphones, an Exersit Air Cushion and a 3D Art Pin Pad. The third bag is called a Fidget Bag and it contains a Loopeez, Gyrobi, Tangle Therapy Jr. with texture, Atomic Stress ball, a DNA Sensory Ball, Hand Fidget, Zipper Bandz and Wood Fidget Puzzle. For those interested in borrowing these items, visit www.parl. ns.ca or drop into your preferred library location to request them.

Upcoming Sensory Storytimes We have been offering a series of inclusive Sensory Storytimes at branches in Pictou and River John this summer thanks to funding from our local Community Health Boards.

Sensory storytimes are similar to typical library storytimes but have special emphasis on sensory play, movement and motor skills exploration. They also incorporate a visual schedule so that children with autism and their families and caregivers can take part in a library program that is sensitive to their needs.

The Pictou Library’s sensory storytime take place Wednesdays at 2 p.m. while River John’s sessions have wrapped up for the summer. These storytimes will be offered in the fall at other libraries in Pictou County as well. Visit www.parl. ns.ca/events or drop into your preferred library location to learn more!

For more information on upcoming library programs, special events and services, drop by your local library branch, follow us on Twitter, find us on Facebook, or visit us online at www. parl.ns.ca.

Holly MacLean is a community outreach assistant for Pictou County.

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