UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State University Libraries has launched two innovative new resources available for circulation to students, staff and faculty. Parent Kits and Sensory Kits are bags and backpacks carefully curated with specialized materials designed to support the diverse needs and well-being of the Penn State community, offering practical tools and resources for various life stages and sensory processing.
Available for checkout in four-hour increments at Pattee Library’s Common Services desk, central Pattee Library, Parent Kits and Sensory Kits underscore the Libraries' commitment to providing inclusive and accessible resources that extend beyond traditional academic materials. Any individual with a current Penn State ID or community borrower card may check the kits out for use during regular library hours.
About Parents Kits
According to a report compiled by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, 26% of all undergraduate students are raising dependent children concurrently with their studies. Parent Kits provide a selection of resources for parents and caregivers to help meet the unique challenges and joys of balancing academic and professional life while parenting. Contents include children's books and educational toys to support early childhood development and offer a moment of respite for caregivers studying in the library.
Three customized age-related kits have been developed to meet the developmental needs of children ages 0-2 years, 2-4 years, and 5-7 years, with a carefully curated collection of books compiled by the Pennsylvania Center for the Book’s Ellysa Cahoy, Penn State Distinguished Librarian for the Education Library. According to Cahoy, all included books are accessible, of high interest to the appropriate reader age range and have proven well-tested during her more than 30 years of sharing story times with children.
“I think these kits are a wonderful initiative that provide a quick way for parents to access curated books and other resources that will be sure-fire hits with their kids,” said Cahoy. “Everyone gets to have fun, and caregivers get a little distraction-free time to finish their work, too.”
Cahoy noted that parents studying with children might also enjoy visiting Paterno Library’s Education Library, which houses one of the largest collections of juvenile materials in Pennsylvania.
Parent Kits were designed in partnership with The Pennsylvania Center for the Book, LibWell, the Library Ambassadors Program and University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA) student affairs, who funded the initiative.
"The introduction of Parent Kits is a testament to our ongoing dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for our entire campus community,” said Rebecca Miller Waltz, Associate Dean for Learning and Engagement. “We understand that well-being and a positive learning environment extend beyond traditional academic resources, and these kits aim to address those broader needs.”
About Sensory Kits
Sensory Kits provide a mobile and versatile alternative to dedicated sensory rooms and spaces located around University Libraries to encourage students to create their own sensory space anywhere they choose to study. The kits were designed to create a more inclusive and comfortable environment for individuals with diverse sensory needs, and offer tools for focus, self-regulation, and stress relief. Neurodivergent-friendly materials assist with managing overstimulation and enhancing concentration in study and work environments.
Sensory kits contain noise cancelling headphones, a touch lamp, kaleidoscope glasses and assorted fidget items. Circulation time is four hours.
"With the availability of sensory kits, students and visitors no longer need to wait for a sensory room to be open; They can tailor their own sensory-friendly study environment wherever — and whenever — they like within the Libraries,” said Megan Gilpin, education program specialist for Library Learning Services, who helped curate the backpack contents, designed to reduce overwhelm and promote calm wherever students are studying.
For information about parent kits or sensory kits, including inquiries regarding accessibility and accommodation, contact Megan Gilpin at mcg13@psu.edu, Monica Gingerich at mcg5660@pu.edu, or Library Learning Services .
Penn State University Libraries is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Events and programs are open to all students regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, or any other protected class.