Welcome to the Low Sensory Lounge!
by Sarah Edmonds, Associate Library Director
What is the LSL?
The Low Sensory Lounge is a new space in the library that was created in partnership with the Personal Counseling Center to better support student well-being on campus. This space is open to all students, but it was designed to create a calmer, low-stimulation environment for students who are anxious, overstimulated, have specific sensory needs, or are searching for a relaxing space to take a break.
What is included?
The room is equipped with comfortable, size-inclusive chairs and bean bags as well as toggle stools and exercise balls for those who focus better with physical movement. For relaxation, we have added weighted lap blankets, Himalayan salt lamps, an animatronic cat, and a noise machine. The space has soft lighting with standing lamps instead of the harsh overhead lights and blinds on the windows to create a cozier atmosphere.
Where is it located?
The Low Sensory Lounge can be found in the back corner of the first floor of the Phillips Memorial Library that was once home to study carrels and tables. We have kept several of the study carrels and chairs for those looking for a more traditional seating arrangement while in the low sensory zone.
Does it need to be reserved?
No. The Low Sensory Lounge is available to all students any time the library is open with no reservation system. This ensures it’s accessible whenever students need a quiet, low-stimulation break.
What are some of the other ways that the library supports student well-being?
The library also has a wellness collection including games, coloring supplies, bubble timers, noise-reducing headphones, visual timers, and meditation lamps. These can all be checked out from the library’s front desk with a PC ID.
We also have activity stations including the Relax & Unwind stations (puzzle table, Zen Zone, button maker, and coloring). This is in conjunction with our regularly rotating activities and events at different points in the academic year, including card making, snack cart, paper and clay crafts, and poetry activities to name a few.
Gratitude & Partnership
The Low Sensory Lounge would not be possible without the generous support of the Personal Counseling Center. We are so grateful for their partnership and inspiration. In addition to their therapy services, the PCC at PC has its own relaxation space that is reservable and available to all students. https://personal-counseling.providence.edu/resources/relaxation-room/
For more information on the library’s Wellness Collection and Wellness Spaces visit: https://pml.providence.edu/resources/wellness/
