BALLYNAHINCH Library has started a new ‘quiet hour’, that will take place weekly.
The launch of the library quiet hours happened yesterday evening, 14 April, from 5 to 6pm.
“Quiet hours are for anyone who would benefit from a calmer, less busy environment. This may include people who experience sensory sensitivities, those who find noise or crowds challenging, or anyone who simply prefers a quieter time to visit the library,” a spokesperson for the local library said.
“The quiet hour offers a more relaxed and predictable time to visit, with no scheduled activities and a quieter atmosphere. Sensory resources, including toys and a pop-up sensory den, are also available for anyone who may find them helpful.”
“We plan to run the quiet hour each Tuesday and continue it through to the summer, while we see how it works for our customers.”
Currently the plan is to have the quiet hour from 5 to 6pm, but the library said that they will be keep the time under review to make sure it is the best time for those who want to use it.
It is hoped that this quiet hour will be beneficial to those who want to look for books or just read in a calm atmosphere.
“It gives people more choice in how and when they use the library. For some, a quieter environment can make it easier to browse, read or spend time together, particularly for families or individuals who may find busier periods more difficult,” the library spokesperson said.
The library decided that this type of quiet hours would be useful to some of its patrons.
“Libraries today are busy, active spaces with a wide range of events and activities taking place throughout the day.
“While this is positive, it can sometimes feel overwhelming for people who prefer a calmer environment,” the library spokesperson said.
The need for a weekly quiet hour may come as a surprise to those who think of libraries as traditionally being quiet places.
“While libraries are often thought of as quiet spaces, they are now lively community hubs with regular events, group activities and general day-to-day use,” the library spokesperson said.
“The quiet hour creates a dedicated time where there are no organised activities, helping to reduce noise and create a more settled environment for those who prefer it.”
Ballynahinch Library is the second local library to start a type of quieter hour like this. The Warrenpoint Library already hosts an autism friendly hour on Wednesdays each week, from 5 to 6pm.
“It is a similar idea in that both offer a quieter, more relaxed library environment. At Ballynahinch, the focus is on providing an inclusive space that supports a wide range of needs and preferences,” the library spokesperson said.
In addition to the new quiet hour, Ballynahinch Library already offers inclusive services and supports for local residents.
“Sensory resources, including a sensory den and toys, are available at any time for those who would like to use them.
“The library also runs occasional Sensory Storytimes, with the next session taking place on Tuesday, 21 April, at 6pm, following the quiet hour,” the library spokesperson said.
The Sensory Storytime is for children ages 4 to 10. Children must be accompanied by an adult and booking is advised. To book a spot at the storytime, phone Ballynahinch Library on 028 9756 4282.
The library staff want people to know that their local library is for everyone to enjoy.
“Ballynahinch Library is a welcoming space for everyone. While we offer specific initiatives like the quiet hour, all of our events and services are designed to be inclusive, and everyone is encouraged to take part in whatever feels right for them,” the library spokesperson said.
