Reminiscence Immersive Room and Environment

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Library Case Study

Challenge

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Libraries achieved success in securing a National Lottery grant from the Libraries Opportunities for Everyone Innovation fund. This grant has enabled us to create an immersive space in our main library located in Thornaby. Our innovative space caters to diverse health needs, promoting wellness and enhancing the library experience. We are excited to offer this unique and inclusive environment that fosters well-being and provides valuable resources to our community.

Solution

Honored to be appointed for the installation of an Immersive Room at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Libraries. Equipped with cutting-edge motion tracking technology and Optoma ultra-short throw projectors for full interactivity.

For this installation, we utilized three Optoma X319UST ultra-short throw projectors, delivering clear and bright imagery without any shadows. Expertly edge-blended, the projectors wrapped imagery around corners, creating an immersive environment for visitors.

The Immersive Room includes sensory hardware like a wind machine, smoke machine, aromatherapy unit, colored lighting, bubble walls, UV lights, star ceiling, and soft padding with optional vibration for various experiences. Stockton-on-Tees Borough Libraries chose the wind machine and aromatherapy unit, recognizing the power of smell in triggering memories.

Our Sensory Room software conveniently controls the Immersive Room, offering pre-created themes and a library of pictures and videos. Visitors can also create their own content, providing a fully customizable experience. They can easily import pictures, video, and audio, and all sensory hardware can be effortlessly controlled through the playlist scheduler. This ensures smooth and seamless transitions between themes and content, with minimal downtime needed for changes.

Our immersive installation caters to diverse health needs, offering a unique and inclusive space for library visitors. Stockton-on-Tees Borough Libraries can now offer an extraordinary experience that fosters well-being and provides valuable resources to their community.

Results

The immersive space provides sensory experiences for diverse individuals, including older people, those with dementia, autism, sensory or learning disabilities, and those seeking a quiet space.

During National Dementia Awareness Week, we organized drop-in relaxation sessions at Stockton Library Service. These sessions featured historic imagery, soothing sounds, and delightful smells, providing participants with a fully sensorial and immersive experience. One heartwarming story from a local resident living with dementia stood out. This individual often faces anxiety and aggression but found solace and comfort in our Imagination Station. He shared with our Health and Well-being Librarian that nothing has helped him cope with life’s challenges more effectively than sitting in the room and experiencing familiar images, sounds, videos, and aromas.

The positive impact of the immersive space is evident in our community, bringing comfort, relaxation, and joy to individuals. Our commitment to creating inclusive and therapeutic environments strengthens our bond with the community and enriches the lives of those we serve. We appreciate the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing unique challenges. Looking ahead, we will introduce more immersive experiences, promoting well-being and fostering a sense of belonging.

Mark Freeman, Libraries and Information Services Manager

It is gratifying to see the immediate positive impact the immersive space is having on our customers’ mental health. We aim to program diverse sessions and promote the space across our entire network to maximize its impact.