The Seattle Public Library Reopens the LEAP Assistive Technology Lab At The Central Library
release date: November 18, 2021
The Central Library's Library Equal Access Program (LEAP) assistive technology lab has reopened with limited hours, The Seattle Public Library announced today. Located on Level 1 at the Central Library, the LEAP lab will be open and staffed on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.to 6 p.m.
The LEAP Lab has several types of equipment and technology to help patrons with disabilities access electronic and printed information. For example, JAWS is a screen-reading software that allows patrons to hear the information that is displayed on a computer monitor and ZoomText is a magnification program that allows users to magnify the text and images displayed on the monitor and choose from a variety of contrasts, among other features.
The LEAP Lab also has a refreshable braille display, which allows users to read, in braille, the information that is on a computer monitor; a braille embosser for printing documents in braille; and a CCTV magnifier, which magnifies print materials.
There is also a video phone available in a carrel on Level 1 that deaf patrons can use to make ASL-interpreted phone calls. (Patrons may make an appointment to use the video phone by emailing LEAP at leap@spl.org, or by calling the QIC line at 206-386-4636.)
During all open hours, LEAP staff are available to support patrons’ needs around assistive technology; answer questions related to accessibility; and help patrons connect to other Library resources and services.
For patrons who cannot make it to the Leap Lab for its open hours, assistive technology continues to be available on Level 5 of the Central Library, where there is a refreshable braille display and a CCTV magnifier.
JAWS and ZoomText software are also available on Library PCs at all 27 Library locations. All Library branches have Accessibility Toolkits, which contain a variety of assistive devices for blind and low-vision patrons. Refreshable braille displays are also available at the Broadview, Columbia, Southwest and University branches.
LEAP also supports a monthly low-vision book group, which is virtual, and a monthly virtual Inclusion Festival event for families with disabilities.
Patrons who would like more information or assistance with assistive technology or accessibility at the Library can email leap@spl.org or leave a voicemail at 206-615-1380.
MORE INFORMATION
The Library is committed to providing an environment that supports the information needs of all members of the community, and fully complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We provide accommodations by request for physical access, communications or other needs that ensure our services, activities and employment are available to people with disabilities. Learn more on our accessibility page
To learn more about the Library's work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, read our 2020 Impact Report
Visit the Library's Road to Reopening page for more information on current Library services.
Contact the Library's Ask Us service by phone at 206-386-4636 or by email or chat at www.spl.org/Ask. Staff are ready to answer questions and direct you to helpful resources and information.