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KultureCity
The Traphene Hickman Library is certified Sensory Inclusive
This innovative designation from nonprofit KultureCity promotes a positive experience for all Library visitors, especially anyone with sensory-processing needs. People sensitive to overstimulation can find noises, smells, lights, and crowds overwhelming, or even sometimes physically painful. This can affect anyone with PTSD, autism, early-onset dementia, anxiety, or other similar conditions.
To earn this certification, our Library staff underwent training to recognize visitors with sensory needs and help them during a sensory overload situation. In addition, the Library now offers new sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads for use in the Library. You'll also notice new signs designating quiet areas, as well as areas that aren't typically quiet where guests with sensory issues might prefer to use headphones. These are just some of the many ways the Traphene Hickman Library promotes inclusivity for all.
Prior to visiting the Library, families can download the free KultureCity App to view what sensory features are available and where they can access them during their visit. Available on the Apple Store and Google Play.
KultureCity in the Library
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Welcome to the Traphene Hickman Library
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I'm going to the Traphene Hickman Library Today
I'm visiting Traphene Hickman Library in Cedar Hill, Texas. This is a Sensory Inclusive Location.
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When I Arrive
I will need to pass through the security gates on my way into the library. Sometimes the gates will beep.
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Inside the Library
Once inside the library I can pick items to borrow with my library card. If I don't have one, it's okay, I can get one for free.
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Where to get a KultureCity Sensory Bag
I can borrow a KultureCity Sensory Bag to use from the Library of Things book shelves closest to the Youth Services Desk. There are friendly staff available to help get one for you.
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What's in a KultureCity Sensory Bag
There are items in the Sensory Bag that will help me feel calm. I can use the headphones and fidget tools to help me stay calm and enjoy my visit.
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Things to do at the Library
The library is full of books and other materials where I can learn about things that interest me. There are welcoming spaces for all age groups. If I need help I can ask a staff member who wears a library staff lanyard.
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Quiet Areas
In the library I might need a Quiet Area to decompress if I get overwhelmed. There are quiet areas that will show me where I can go. There is a comfort room located on the first floor of the library in the Youth Services Area.
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Headphone Zones
There are a few locations in the library that I might find a little loud. There are Headphone Zone signs to let me know where I might want to use headphones.
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Sensory Overload Zone
There are a couple of areas in the library where you may experience sensory overload. There are signs to help you so that you may explore your KultureCity Sensory Bag.
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Restroom
If I need to use the restroom, I can follow the signs for the restroom. The family bathroom is located on the first floor in the Youth Services area. I can also ask a staff member for directions.
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Checking Out Books
When I'm ready to go home I can visit any of the service desks. Here I can use my library card to check out some books I've chosen. If I don't have a library card, a staff member can help me get my own.
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Thank You!
I had a great day at the library today. I can't wait to go back!
- 1 Group in Front of Library Ready for a Tour
- 2 Tour Group entering the Library Front Doors
- 3 Tour Group Passing through Security Gates
- 4 Individual Getting a Library Card at Counter
- 5 KultureCity Sensory Bags
- 6 Items Inside a KultureCity Sensory Bag
- 7 Individual Drawing on a Chalkboard Wall
- 8 Quiet Area Sign
- 9 Headphone Zone Sign
- 10 Sensory Overload Zone Sign
- 11 Restroom Door
- 12 Checking Out Books at the Library
- 13 Tour Group Leaving the Library