Library adds devices to support those with print disabilities

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This article was published 17/04/2023 (1087 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A library in St Pierre is hoping three new devices will make a world of difference to those with print disabilities.

Beginning May 1, the Jolys Regional Library will have additional accessibility services thanks to a $7,000 grant from the Manitoba Accessibility Fund.

Head librarian Nicole Gregoire explained that several new devices will help people dealing with print disabilities, ranging from seniors to children and including those with challenges reading small print, those who suffer from dyslexia or others who can benefit from audio books.

The new acquisitions to the library’s collection includes Yoto Players, Victor Readers and iPads.

The Yoto Players are small devices in which books stored on a card can be inserted. They are used to play the audio book, giving the user a screenless mobile device.

“You’re solely using your auditory, so the child will be sitting there colouring and as they’re colouring, they’re imagining this world that’s being told to them without having a picture for a reference,” she said. “I think it’s an amazing way for kids to learn language and develop listening skills.”

Like their other formats, Gregoire said they strive to have about a third of all books in French. That also allows anglophone parents the ability to have their children listen to French books, even though they wouldn’t have the ability to read to them.

The library purchased three Yoto Players and currently has about 150 cards featuring a wide variety of books.

They have also purchased two Victor Readers.

These media players have access to over 500,000 titles through CELA (Centre for Equitable Library Access). They also play CDs. The library currently has over 100 CDs and continues to grow their collection in both official languages.

This device is larger, featuring large buttons, making it ideal for seniors who may have physical challenges such as arthritis or visual challenges.

Gregoire said people can request their favourite author, language or even a specific title and they can be downloaded onto the device before it’s checked out.

“They’re big and easy to manipulate,” she said.

Two iPads have also joined the library’s resources.

These include dyslexic friendly fonts, specifically designed to make reading easier for those with dyslexia.

Some book downloads from both CELA and NNELS (National Network for Equitable Library Service) also offer the opportunity for readers to follow along through real time text highlighting as the story is told.

The new devices were slated to be shown to the community for the first time at a community presentation on Wednesday, April 12 at Chalet Malouin, a supported housing facility in St Pierre.

They will also host a presentation at 1:30 p.m. on April 28 at Manoir St Pierre, a local independent living facility in advance of their May 1 launch.

Gregoire said for many people regular books don’t work, either because the print is too small, the book is too heavy, or the format is not readable.

“If you have a disability, you’re most likely not accessing literature like everybody else,” she said.

And while they have large print in stock, it doesn’t really fill the gap.

After the grant was approved, Gregoire said she asked herself a question.

“How can we ensure that everybody can access books regardless of their age, regardless of their abilities and regardless of language?” she asked.

A later reader herself, Gregoire said she struggled with reading until middle school.

“And then one day, this whole world opened up and since then my nose has been in a book,” she said. “I just love reading and I want people to enjoy it.”

The library has a wish list when it comes to addressing print disabilities.

Gregoire said there’s a lack of print material for people with dyslexia, for both kids and adults. More French large print books are also required.

She also hopes to keep getting more titles for both the Yoto Players and Victor Readers.

All the devices and associated materials will be available to be checked out by library members.

Membership is free for those who live in St Pierre and the RM of De Salaberry.

Gregoire said a lot of work has gone into setting up these new devices and she’s happy they’ll soon be in the hands of readers.

“I’m just really excited that we’re able to offer this service now, because libraries are about access to information and freedom to choose and to read,” she said. “This just puts everybody on an equal playing field, and you can still read, no matter what your abilities.”