Blindness & Low Vision

  • Handheld magnifiers (all locations)
  • Large print keyboards (all locations)
  • Electronic adjustable desktop magnifier (Main Library top floor)
  • Dedicated desktop computer with Microsoft Narrator screen reader, magnifier, large print keyboard, 27″ monitor and mouse with track ball and tilt plate (Main Library top floor; North Quincy)
  • Screen magnification options on desktop computers (all locations)
  • Chromebooks with accessibility features (Main Library)
  • Video recordings with audio descriptions for adults and children
  • Braille books for children; braille books for adults available via interlibrary loan
  • Large type books
  • The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (through the Perkins School for the Blind) provides free library materials and services for Massachusetts residents who have trouble reading or holding a regular book. To learn more or to see if you qualify, call (617) 972-7240 or visit the Perkins Library.

Deafness & Hearing Loss

  • Chromebooks with accessibility features (Main Library)
  • Over-Ear headphones with disposable covers (all locations)
  • Audio speakers (Main Library Media Room)
  • DVDs with closed captions and subtitles in various languages
  • American Sign Language learning materials in book, video, and computer software formats
  • Assisted listening system to help make listening easier in the Main Library community meeting room

Mobility

  • The Washington Street entrance is the accessible entrance for the Main Library, with elevators available from the ground floor to reach all other floors
  • All library buildings except the Wollaston Branch have designated handicapped parking spaces in library parking lots, automatic door openers, accessible entrances, and accessible bathrooms
  • Sit-down computers that accommodate wheelchairs are available at all locations

Learning Disabilities

  • Literacy program that provides one-on-one tutoring for adults who want to learn to read, using the Wilson Reading System, a structured, sequential multi-sensory program for adults with language-based learning disabilities
  • Computer training incorporating a one-on-one teaching model
  • Special collection containing abridged high-interest materials for adult new readers (Main Library)
  • Materials in non-print formats, such as audiobooks and videos

Other Services and Resources

  • Ergonomic computer mice with precision buttons for finer control (all locations)
  • We will answer questions by phone, email, live chat, text, or in person whenever the library is open
  • We will search the online catalog, check shelves, and place holds for library users
  • We will assist visitors to browse and retrieve library materials
  • Books, videos, and audiobooks on architectural adaptations and adaptive equipment, medical and social issues and services, careers and skills training, and more are available to use in the library and to check out