MESA, Arizona -- Dec. 11, 2024 -- Mesa Community College introduces Library Sensory Rooms, a supportive environment tailored to students with sensory sensitivities.

Using student surveys and having discussions with neurodiverse students, MCC Disability Resource Services staff and a Maricopa County Community College District advocacy group for employees and students with disabilities it was determined Library Sensory Rooms could help create a more accepting and calming space to support student learning.

"Our goal is to create spaces and services where students feel supported, heard and valued, not just academically, but as individuals, making the library a welcoming and inclusive resource for everyone," said MCC Library faculty Alexia King.

The sensory room is equipped with alternative seating options, such as a yoga ball and wobble cushions, lighting options and sensory kits which are also available for check-out. Sensory kits come in a backpack and include noise canceling headphones and a variety of fidget items.

"From the start, student voices shaped these projects," said King. "Their ideas and insights have guided every step of this process, helping us reimagine the library as a space that truly meets their needs."

King presented the sensory room concept and MCC's future plans at the 2024 Arizona Library Association annual conference.

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Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving over 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. For nearly 60 years, MCC has been a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services and is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges. The MCC American Indian Institute supports students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. MCC's diverse student body includes hundreds of international students. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education and training. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional lands of the O'odham, Piipaash, and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.