University Library

In 2026, staff at the UC Santa Cruz University Library conducted a project aimed to understand and improve student sensory experiences in library spaces. We recruited 11 undergraduate students to engage in co-design sessions wherein students discussed sensory-related experiences in the library and ideated potential changes that would improve those experiences. These recommended changes were in the areas of communication, facilities, policies, the room booking website, and the equipment and supplies at the library. 

This report includes a review of the literature on the impact sensory sensitivities have on undergraduate experiences and an overview on how academic libraries are addressing sensory sensitivities. It also details the methodology researchers used to conduct co-design sessions with students and the changes recommended by the student participants.