New Study Pods Expand Accessibility at Tufts Library

Creating spaces where every community member can thrive

We're excited to announce that three new Nook study pods have just been installed at Tufts Library, and they're now available for public use. These pods represent our commitment to making Weymouth Libraries truly accessible and welcoming to all community members.

Thanks to support from Foundation donors, we've added two pods upstairs (labeled 221A and 222A, located between traditional study rooms 221 and 222) and a specialized Sensory Nook in the back corner of the children's room.

Designed for Diverse Needs

The upstairs pods include a fully ADA-accessible Nook Shelter and a standard Nook Huddle. The Shelter features an open alcove design with built-in acoustic panels for sound control and lockable casters for easy repositioning, making it highly accessible and adaptable. The Huddle pod accommodates up to 2 people with a table, integrated power, customizable lighting, and under-seat storage. Both pods create ideal environments for focused work while maintaining an open design.

A Sanctuary for Our Youngest Patrons

The Sensory Nook in the children's room holds special significance for us. While it's specifically designed to support neurodiverse individuals, it's open to all junior patrons who may need a sanctuary to focus, recharge, and connect with their surroundings in a supportive environment.

This specialized pod features customizable lighting and soft acoustic panels to minimize noise, creating a serene atmosphere that helps reduce anxiety and sensory overload. The mobile design allows library staff to reposition the pod as needed.

"These new pods represent our commitment to making Weymouth Libraries inclusive and accessible to all community members," said Matt Tallon, Foundation President. "We're particularly proud to fund innovations that adapt to diverse needs, especially with the sensory-friendly pod that will create a safe, calming space for children who may feel overwhelmed in traditional library settings."

Library Director Amy Rosa added, "Tufts Library has established itself as one of the foremost modern libraries on the South Shore, and these pods further enhance our ability to support diverse learning needs. The sensory-friendly pod in our children's room will be particularly transformative, allowing us to better serve families whose children benefit from having a quieter, more controlled environment while still enjoying all the resources our library offers."

Reserve Your Pod Today

Library patrons can reserve the pods through the Weymouth Public Libraries booking portal or at the circulation desk during regular library hours.

Looking Ahead

Later this year, the Foundation plans to deploy additional capital for an overhaul of the worn furniture in the Tufts Library's children's room, plus portable outdoor rental lockers for the Franklin Pratt Library location. Our libraries play a vital role in connecting diverse community members across neighborhoods and providing dynamic resources for residents of all ages—and we're committed to ensuring those spaces work for everyone.

Want to support future initiatives like this?  Visit our website to learn more about how you can help strengthen our community's libraries.