A newly designed and furnished space in the Orland Park Public Library was designed to bring calm and comfort on any given day to those who might be overwhelmed by library activity.

“Our librarians would often see kids have to have their visits shortened,” said Brandi Smits, the library’s youth services manager. “This space allows these patrons and their families to feel welcome, even if it turns out that someone is having a bad day.”

In addition to what the librarians have observed, she learned from a mother of a young child on the autism spectrum that such a space was needed.

Called the Darvin Sensory Space, the new room includes a bubble mirror, hands-on toys such as fidget spinners, and interactive wall tiles, among other features.

The room hasn’t been used yet because of restrictions related to the pandemic, said Jackie Boyd, Youth Services librarian, but she expects it to get used “daily” once patrons return to the library.

Melanie Rickert, director of Caraval Autism Health in Orland Park, which serves youngsters who are considered on the autism spectrum, said the new sensory room is a welcome addition to the area. Families with children who have special needs often are reluctant to visit public spaces.

“Having this space will provide a place where they can go without feeling like their child can’t be themselves’ in public,” she said.

Richert said the prevalence of autism has increased since 2000.

“Right now autism affects an estimated one and 54 children in the U.S.,” she said.

Smith said the library board and the administration agreed to add the sensory room into an overall $3.2 million renovation project based on recommendations from the librarians. The space formerly had been designated for employees only.

Smith’s recommendations for the furnishings in the room, such as a giant beanbag sofa and cosmic liquid floor tiles came after she attended a workshop about design of sensory spaces.

“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” Boyd said. “I think knowing that patrons with autism will be welcomed and supported in this library gives appeal to our community.”

Furniture and other items in the space as well as funds for other elements such as a fiber optic curtain were donated by Darvin Furniture in Orland Park.

Will Harris, president of Darvin, said in a news release the furnishings for the room are a natural fit for a local furniture store to provide.

“When we became aware of the need for a sensory room at the library, it immediately felt to us like it was a place we might be able to help out,” he said. “Our hope is that this will have a real impact on families lives here in Orland Park.”

Barbara Dargis is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.