Accessibility Tools
Would assistive technologies make your use of the library more rewarding? In addition to text enlargers at five branches, our computers are equipped with many accessibility features.
Library Accessibility Features
Do you need to know which accessibility features are available at your branch?
- Service animals and service animals in-training are welcome
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Automatic doors at entrances
- Elevators
- Hearing Loop
- Accessible Catalogue Only computers
- Accessible Checkout stations
- Computer workstations are wheelchair accessible
- Headphone accessibility for all Internet workstations
- Magnifying sheets and handheld magnifiers
Aroga Merlin Text Enlarger features brightly lit large screen with adjustable or stationary platform, custom text blocking, use of lines to assist with tracking of text, background colour change options. It is available at the following branches: Central, Red Hill and Dundas.
C-Pens: The C-Pen Reader is a small, compact pen-like device that scans text and reads it out loud. (Available at Central Library.)
Accessibility Software on Computers
All public computers have a desktop accessibility folder where you can access accessibility services, settings and programs available in Windows, including:
Magnifier: Magnifier is a program that magnifies a portion of your computer screen, making it easier to read.
Narrator: Narrator is a program that reads the text on your screen out loud.
On-Screen Keyboard: On-Screen Keyboard is a program that lets you use your mouse or other devices to interact with a keyboard on the screen.
AODA: Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities
The Hamilton Public Library wants to ensure all Members have a pleasant and successful library experience. We are committed to making library resources and services accessible to people with disabilities, their families and caregivers. Our services will be provided in a manner that respects the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities. We strive to make our services relevant, inclusive and responsive to community needs.
Accessibility for Individuals with a Disability - Hamilton Public Library Policy
Hamilton Public Library Multi-Year Accessibility Plan 2022-2026
2023 Accessibility Compliance Report
Hamilton Public Library Accessibility Report 2012-2013
Feedback
Hamilton Public Library welcomes your valuable comments, questions and suggestions about our services to persons with disabilities and persons with accessibility needs.
Feedback may be given by several means
- Electronically, via Contact Us, allows Members to provide feedback through email
- In writing, comment forms are available at all locations and may be given to any Staff Member
- By telephone, please call 905-546-3200
- In person, any Staff Member will accept feedback from a Member and will follow up with a manager
Temporary Service Disruptions
The Library will make reasonable effort to provide notice of planned or unplanned disruption of library services to the public, including information about the reason for the disruption, its anticipated duration and a description of alternative facilities or services, if any, that may be available. In the case of unplanned disruption, advance notice will not be possible. Notice will be given to the public by posting the information at a conspicuous place on affected premises and by posting notice on the Library website, and by such other method as is reasonable in the circumstances.
Availability of Documents
Upon request all documents published by the Library can be made available in large print or in alternate accessible formats.
Centre for Equitable Library Access
Do you have difficulty reading print? If you have trouble reading print because of a visual, physical or learning disability the Hamilton Public Library offers lots of other ways to read.
As a member of CELA, we offer:
- Titles for all ages in audio, e-text and braille
- More than 85,000 books, magazines and newspapers
- Materials in English and French, with expanding access to other languages
Register for CELA service using the new self-registration form found at the the CELA website.
To find out more, contact your local library branch or email askhpl@hpl.ca.