Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

Introducing the new sensory room in the Wilmeth Active Learning Center (WALC)

March 5th, 2026

College life can be exciting, inspiring—and at times, overwhelming. Between exams, projects, meetings, and everyday responsibilities, finding a quiet place to unwind can be a challenge. That’s why Purdue Libraries has introduced a new space designed with student well-being in mind: the sensory room in the Wilmeth Active Learning Center (WALC), room 1134.

A space designed for calm

The sensory room is thoughtfully designed to be a calming, relaxing, and stress-free environment for all. Whether you need a break between classes, a reset during finals week, or simply a peaceful moment in your day, this room offers a supportive space to recharge.

With a capacity of six people, the room can be used by individuals seeking quiet reflection or small groups looking for a shared calming experience. However, it’s important to note that this is not a group study room. The focus here is wellness, relaxation, and sensory-friendly comfort—not collaborative academic work.

What makes it special?

The sensory room features a variety of elements carefully chosen to promote comfort and relaxation:

• Comfortable, flexible furniture options
• Adjustable lighting to create a soothing atmosphere
• Engaging sensory and calming activities, including sensory kits (also available at every library location)

These features allow visitors to tailor the environment to their needs—whether that means dimming the lights for a moment of quiet or using one of the available activities to decompress after a busy day.

Easy and flexible reservations

The sensory room is reservable for as little as 30 minutes or up to 2 hours, giving students flexibility to fit wellness into their schedules. While those with reservations have top priority, the room may also be available for walk-in use.

To check availability or inquire about using the space without a reservation, simply stop by the second-floor information desk at WALC.

Reserve the sensory room on the Libraries website. 

Supporting student well-being

The addition of the sensory room reflects Purdue Libraries’ commitment to supporting not just academic success, but overall student well-being. In a campus environment that values productivity and achievement, it’s equally important to provide spaces that encourage rest, mindfulness, and balance.

If you haven’t visited yet, consider stopping by the 2nd-floor desk and checking out the key to WALC 1134. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is pause, breathe, and reset.

Your well-being matters—and now there’s a space on campus designed just for that. For questions, contact Amanda Gill, lead operations manager.