Library Customer Service Assistant Rachael Vierheller and Sam Patterson look forward to welcoming families to the Sensory Carnival at the Tuscarawas County Public Library located at 121 Fair Ave NW, New Philadelphia. (Submitted photo)

New Philadelphia, Ohio - The Tuscarawas County Public Library System will host a Sensory Carnival on Saturday, September 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Main Library in New Philadelphia.

The event, offered in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the STEAM Centers Pop Up Museum, will feature a variety of sensory activities.

"Attendees will engage their five senses as they explore stations in our Children's Department," said Customer Service Assistant Rachael Vierheller. "The activities are sure to stimulate children's mind and spark their sense of wonder."

Vierheller said many people are coming together to make the event special for those who attend. Former Columbus Zoo employee Sam Patterson will share his knowledge of animals with an exotic puppet zoo, and New Philadelphia native Becky Knecht will have her therapy dog Lucy available for guests to meet and greet.

For emotional support, Mercedes Devine will have bunnies on hand to touch and hold. Guests can create a calming bottle or sensory bag and will also have the chance to take pictures in an animal-themed photo booth.

"This event is a wonderful kick-off to our fall sensory storytimes that will be held monthly on the first Friday at 6:00 p.m.," said Library Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell. "These after-hours storytimes are geared towards children and families with special needs who prefer a low-stress environment."

As part of the carnival, Vierheller will provide a sneak peek to the sensory storytimes by presenting a special storytime at noon featuring books and songs followed by a sensory play, touch, and discovery time.

Refreshments will be provided at the Sensory Carnival. For children who need them, noise canceling headphones will be available on a first-come, first served basis.

For more information about the Sensory Carnival or storytimes, call 330-364-4474 ext. 102 or visit www.tusclibrary.org. The library is located at 121 Fair Ave. NW in New Philadelphia.

TUSCARAWAS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM