Westport Library opens new sensory space

Mayo County Library now offers sensory spaces in five of its 14 branches with the addition of a Sensory Cubbie Pod to Westport Library, which was launched last week. Supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht’s 2026 Small Scale Capital Investment for Libraries, this new space offers greater accessibility and inclusion for those visiting the library and the wider community.

The pods designed by Kiltimagh-based Cubbie offer a personalised sensory regulation solution that adapts to an individual’s unique sensory needs, delivering targeted support. Light, sound and visuals can all be adopted and changed to suit the individual using the Cubbie and in ten minutes or less, the calming, immersive effect can be transformative.

County Librarian Austin Vaughan said: “We are delighted to offer this sensory space in Westport Library and we believe it will be a valuable addition to the town and surrounding area. We have seen in our other libraries how well these spaces work for people who have been using them.” 

Visitors can drop into the library at any time during library opening hours to try out this new resource, with staff available to demonstrate and assist.