Vol. 35, No. 2
June 2005

PUBLIC LIBRARIES CAN SERVE YOU TOO

For several years this library has surveyed the public libraries in Arizona, asking what kinds of adaptive technology they offer to patrons in their service area. We compile the information in a loose-leaf format and also post it on our web site at http://www.lib.az.us/braille/adaptive_technology.cfm. Most of the libraries in the state offer some kind of assistance to the visually impaired. Almost all the libraries exchange talking book machines, so you can always call your local library to check if they have an exchange machine available that you could pick up. They will even take care of getting your broken player back to us! This is a real convenience to you since cassette players inevitably give out just when you get to the most exciting part of the book.

Most libraries also offer large print books and books recorded on audio tapes and compact discs. You can probably find a recorded book at the library to tide you over if you should run out. Our players will play the public library’s tapes if you change the speed switch from 15/16 to 1 7/8.

Many of the libraries have service for the home-bound, and the larger libraries might have reading machines, CCTV’s and other adaptive equipment.