Getting ready forHillsborough County Public Library sensory toolkits.
Every Hillsborough County Public Library location has sensory toolkits for in-library use, with headphones, sunglasses and fidget and stress toys. Ask library staff when you visit, and read your library's social narrative before you go.
Sensory supports. Sensory toolkits at every library, social narratives.
Hours
Each library posts its own hours on the Hours & Locations page, and every location is closed on Sundays. Holidays: open until 6 pm Nov 23 to 25 2026; all locations closed on Thanksgiving Day and the day after; open until 6 pm Dec 21 to 23 2026; Christmas Eve, all locations closed except Temple Terrace Public Library; Christmas Day, all locations closed; open until 6 pm Dec 26 2026 and Dec 28 to 31 2026, New Year's Eve included; New Year's Day, all locations closed. The library's Holiday Closings page lists the rest of the year.
Every Hillsborough County Public Library location, for example John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Dr., Tampa, FL 33602-3704. Each library's address is on the library's Hours & Locations page.
“Sensory Toolkits are available at all HCPLC locations for in-library use.”
“Our toolkits have both sensory relieving tools like headphones and sunglasses, and sensory stimulating tools like fidget and stress toys.”
“Speak to library staff during your next visit to use one of our toolkits.”
“A social narrative is a written and visual guide to help people adjust to a new environment and meet social expectations of the library.”
The library made its social narratives with the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at USF (CARD-USF). There is one for each of 26 libraries, and each shows that library's own entrance and spaces.
The library calls itself a quiet place. If your kid makes sounds to stay regulated, a short break outside is always an option if either of you wants one.
Restrooms: toilets when flushed, and hand dryers (toilets may be a little loud; hand dryers can be loud too)not stated
Quieter, in the library's words
Study room or quiet area, Brandon Regional Libraryquiet zone
Snacks and drinks: you can eat dry snacks, but not at the computers, and snacks aren't allowed at Temple Terrace Public Library. Drinks must have lids, and no drinks at the computers either.
Children aged 12 and under must be with a parent, guardian, or a responsible caregiver aged at least 14. Anyone, child or adult, who needs care or supervision can't be left alone at any time, including at closing.
Keep your belongings with you at all times, and bring only personal items that fit comfortably under a desk.
The library is recognized as an autism-friendly partner by the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of South Florida.
Bruton Memorial Library in Plant City (813-757-9215) and Temple Terrace Public Library (813-506-6770) have their own phone numbers; the other libraries list 813-273-3652.
