Assistive Technology
The following items are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Customer Service desk:
- Accessible keyboards with large-print, high-contract keys.
- Text and image LED magnifying tools.
Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities who are planning to hold or attend a program or event will be provided upon request. Please notify the library at least two weeks in advance.
Collection
Materials available in large print include books and digital e-books and e-magazines that allow readers to adjust the font size and other display settings.
Audiobooks are available on Playaways and in downloadable formats.
At-Home Delivery Service
At-home delivery of library materials is available to eligible residents who are unable to visit the library in person because of a disability, illness, injury, age-related need, mobility-related access need, or another circumstance that makes travel difficult or unsafe.
Learn more about eligibility, available materials, delivery, renewals, and returns on the At-Home Delivery Service Policy and Procedures page.
LAMP – Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians
LAMP, or the Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians, helps individuals who cannot access traditional printed materials reconnect with the joy of reading. This service offers free shipment of materials in accessible formats like Braille, audio, described movies, and large print directly to patrons across Pennsylvania. Additionally, LAMP provides digital access to hundreds of thousands of downloadable audio and Braille titles. If you have a visual impairment, physical disability that prevents holding a book or turning pages, or a reading disability such as dyslexia, LAMP is designed to support your reading needs.
Eligibility
Pennsylvania residents who have difficulty using standard print materials because of a visual, physical, or reading disability may be eligible for LAMP services. Learn more about LAMP eligibility.
Books and Media
- BARD – Braille and Audio Reading Download
- Bookshare
- NLS – National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled
Services
- Digital Audiobooks and Magazines: Available on flash drive cartridges or through the BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) app, which allows direct downloads to personal devices.
- Braille Books and Downloads: Accessible through refreshable braille devices, designed specifically to support blind and deaf-blind users.
- Large Print Books: Printed in a minimum 14-point typeface to assist individuals with partial sight.
- Tactile and Braille Early Literacy Kits: Designed for preschoolers through grade 2, these kits include books with both Braille and print, as well as textures and sound buttons for enhanced sensory engagement.
- Audio Described DVDs: Provide audio descriptions of on-screen action for an inclusive movie experience. These DVDs come in cases labeled in Braille.
- Bookshare: An accessible online library offering a vast collection of digital books to supplement the NLS collection, Bookshare is available for free to NLS users.
For more information on registering for LAMP services or to inquire about the availability of specific materials, please visit the LAMP website or call directly at 800-242-0586.
TechOWL
TechOWL (formerly known as PIAT) is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities explore the tools and technologies needed for independence. As Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Act program, TechOWL operates through nine regional centers across the Commonwealth.
Services
- Statewide Technology Lending Library: Offers a “try before you buy” program, allowing users to borrow technology to determine if it meets their needs before making a purchase.
- Assistive Technology Information and Support: Provides information and answers to help Pennsylvanians understand available technological solutions.
- Technology Demonstrations: Personalized demonstrations to help users find the best technology to suit their needs.
- Training and Presentations: Delivers educational opportunities, including customized presentations and training sessions for organizations, schools, universities, and groups across Pennsylvania.
- ReUse Program: Accepts donations of lightly used equipment and redistributes these valuable resources to new users.
- Specialized Communication Assistance: Provides free specialized phones for those unable to use standard phones and supports the iCanConnect program for individuals with both vision and hearing impairments.
TechOWL is part of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University. For questions, visit their website, call 800-204-7428, or email TechOWL@temple.edu.