Public libraries in Galway county have been allocated more than €25,000 to invest in sensory equipment and facilities.
This funding is for services at public libraries benefiting people with sensory impairments, special education needs, and specific learning differences including those on the autism spectrum.
Galway East TD Sean Canney said that €20,000 will be provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development, and a further €6,600 will come from Galway County Council.
This funding will be used to provide services and equipment such as sensory rooms, sensory play equipment and toys, assistive technologies and autism friendly signage and books.
“I am acutely aware of the challenges facing those living with autism or who have sensory challenges and I am delighted that we can support them in this way,” Sean Canney said.
“Public libraries play a very important part in providing additional services to achieve our Sustainable Development Goals and this funding will increase their capacity to continue to do so.”
In total the Department of Rural and Community Development is providing €600,000 for this programme at libraries around the country, with another €200,000 coming from local authorities.
