Mark McDonald MSP has welcomed the news that Aberdeen City Council will soon be introducing Autism Friendly Libraries throughout the city after writing to Angela Scott requesting that the local authority consider introducing a similar pop up library model currently used by Aberdeenshire Council.
A response to the Aberdeen Donside MSP confirmed that following his letter, officers will soon be meeting with colleagues from Aberdeenshire Library & Information Service to get a feel of how a pop up sensory experience library operates and to consider the sensory experience equipment necessary to make it happen in city libraries.
Commenting on the news, Mr McDonald said:
“I decided to write to Aberdeen City Council after hearing of a fantastic initiative taking place in libraries throughout Aberdeenshire for children with autism. We know that people with autism can often face difficulties when interacting with the world around them, and it is important to ensure that local services are as accessible as possible for everyone.
“My hope is that by creating unique pop-up sensory spaces, libraries can help ensure children have a positive experience, where families with children on the autistic spectrum can come visit and be confident they can access a space in which they can be comfortable in.
“I believe that this is a worthwhile initiative that promotes inclusiveness in an environment that encourages imagination and learning among our children, and it is important to ensure that our libraries are accessible to all.”