Mayor launches sensory toys and equipment in Waterford library
With Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Seamus Ryan at the launch of the Sensory Toys and Equipment Collection in Carrickphierish Library were Debbie Johnston, Fiona Foskin and Niamh Baldwin of Waterford Libraries
As part of Waterford Libraries’ 2025, 'Library Ireland Week', Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Seamus Ryan launched the updated and expanded sensory toys and equipment collection at a special event in Carrickphierish Library earlier this month.
The collection boasts over 100 sensory items to use at home and supports children and their families who have a wide range of additional needs.
Mayor Ryan said: “Waterford’s excellent libraries continue to provide a wide range of services, and the sensory collection is just one of the valuable services offered."
“The idea is simple, giving families and individuals a chance to try equipment and see what works best for them at home," he said.
"Sensory needs vary from person to person, and the collection offers something for everyone," he added.
Mary Conway, City and County Librarian added: “This collection was initially supported with Dormant Accounts Funding through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and is now supported by Waterford City and County Council."
“The theme of this year’s Library Ireland Week is ‘Libraries Lighting the Way’, and we could think of no better time to highlight this collection," she said.
"You’ll find items to support, gross and fine motor skills, creative play sets and games designed to build social and emotional skills," she added. "There are fantastic resources for numeracy and handwriting, as well as tactile, light, and audio sensory equipment to explore and to support all needs."
Highlighting that the library's catalogue is updated regularly, she also noted how people can browse the catalogue anytime on the library website or in-person.
"This important service is completely free to use, with no membership fees, no fines, and is available through any of Waterford Libraries, 12 branches across the city and county," she said.
By joining Waterford Libraries, people can get access to millions of books nationwide, free eBooks and audiobooks on BorrowBox, children’s activities, study spaces, community events, digital resources, and warm, welcoming branches where they can simply sit, read, learn, or recharge.
"Tour library card opens far more doors than people realise," said a spokesperson for Waterford Libraries.
To browse the sensory toys and equipment catalogue visit www.waterfordlibraries.ie or to borrow any items just drop in to any branch with ID and once you have signed up - if not already a member - you will receive a 'Toys, Technology & Training' (TTT) card to borrow from the sensory collection.
