By Eunice B.
Reference Librarian
Submitted on July 6, 2011
The Capital Area District Library strives to be as accessible as possible to all. Our goal is for the library to be enjoyable and useful to everyone, regardless of ability. As stated in our Accessibility Policy:
“The Capital Area District Library is committed to creating an environment where people with disabilities are treated with respect and provided with independent access to all collections and services.”
To this end, our libraries strive to comply with all ADA policies, provide reasonable accommodations, utilize adaptive technology whenever possible, and offer assistance as needed. Some of our services include:
For the visually impaired
For those with enough vision to read large print, we offer a large print book collection. These books can be sent to any CADL branch, no matter where they are currently stored. To browse them or have them delivered to your branch, start at cadl.org/catalog. Under Quick Search, choose Call Number. Then, to see the entire collection of large print books, enter “LP.” To see a certain type of large print book, such as mysteries, enter “LP MYS.” To see a complete list of book types, go to cadl.org/catalog, find Quick Search, and click on Call Number.
For those with more advanced visual impairment, a device called SARA (Scanning and Reading Appliance) is available on the second floor of the Downtown Library. SARA will scan typed documents, such as pages from a book or magazine, and read the content aloud through built-in speakers or headphones.
For the hearing impaired
CADL will provide independent access for patrons to items in our buildings, whenever possible. Where access is limited, staff assistance is available upon request. CADL will also provide a sign language interpreter for all CADL events upon request. Requests must be made to the specific library at least two weeks before the scheduled events. Find a searchable list of all upcoming events at cadl.org/events.
For those who have difficulty traveling to a library
When a disability makes it difficult to get to the library, Books by Mail may be the answer. In this program offered by CADL’s Outreach Services, books, audiobooks, CDs, videotapes and DVDs are loaned to patrons with no charge for mailing. Call (517) 367-6308 for more information about Books by Mail.
Some valuable library resources on the topic of disabilities include:
o Job Search Handbook for People with Disabilities by Daniel J. Ryan
o The Illustrated Guide to Assistive Technology and Devices by Suzanne Robitaille
o Barrier-Free Travel by Candy B. Harrington
o Parenting an Adult with Disabilities or Special Needs by Peggy Lou Morgan
The Capital Area District Library Reference Department is located at 401 S. Capitol Avenue in Lansing, MI. Contact them at 517-367-6346 or by e-mail at reference@cadl.org.
This was printed in the July 17, 2011 – July 30, 2011 Edition
