Computer users with low vision may face difficulty reading text and viewing images efficiently on a standard computer monitor. A larger, hi res monitor can provide a larger image and text, enabling the visually impaired to use library resources more effectively. Larger screens also allow for in-built magnification software to scale up the size of […]
Westmeath Libraries are delighted to say that we have added some assistive technology for people experiencing varying levels of sight loss using portable hand magnifiers to our libraries. The Looky is a video magnifier with which you can examine enlarged pictures and text. The zoom is adjustable and can be used for both reading and writing. […]
Westmeath Libraries are a welcoming space for all, as such lower more accessible shelving units will enable wheelchair users greater access to our book stock . Traditional library shelves are barriers for wheelchair users, those with mobility issues and people who are vertically challenged. These lower shelving units will provide opportunities for inclusion in the […]
The PS5 Access controller was designed in collaboration with the accessibility community to assist players with diverse needs. With large circular buttons and a joystick, it is designed to significantly improve gaming experiences for individuals with disabilities. Accessible video games can contribute to overall quality of life and interpersonal relationships, making the gaming experience in […]
Sensory play is a great way of engaging all of your senses in a fun way. Here in Westmeath Libraries we are delighted to have sensory rooms in Athlone and Mullingar Libraries, a sensory feature in Moate Library and a mobile sensory trolley in Castlepollard Library. All of our libraries also have sensory toys for […]
As part of our Bridge the Gap programme we are delighted to welcome Mary Moran along for an online talk on 12th Dec 2022, at 11am. Dyslexia, dyspraxia and dysgraphia can be barriers to learning and working. As part of our Bridge the Gap programme Westmeath Libraries are hosting a number of talks and workshops […]
Westmeath Libraries wishes to enhance the quality of life for all the people of Westmeath by promoting inclusive services. To combat the social exclusion that Deaf people can face we wish to raise awareness amongst library staff, and all our users. To this end Mullingar Library hosted a number of signed storytimes with an ISL […]
Westmeath Libraries are delighted to announce that C-Pens are now available to borrow from Westmeath Libraries. The C-Pen is a wonderful tool for anyone learning English, or for people with reading difficulties such as dyslexia. It can also be of benefit to people with vision problems, as this portable device reads text out aloud to […]
We are delighted to announce a series of events in Westmeath Libraries around the world of Sensory Story times. Sensory stories can open up a world of different experiences for participants. This programme of events will include story times in our libraries, as well as a series of talks for parents/carers/teachers. Funded by Dormant Accounts […]
LOTE online for kids is now available to all members of Westmeath Libraries. This is an online database of digital picture books in World Languages that allows children to enjoy the magic of books in Languages Other Than English. There are 1500+ digital picture books in 50+ languages, with new books and languages released each […]