Library access centre

The primary aim of the service is to ensure equity of access to library services for residents who have vision, hearing, intellectual or mobility disabilities. The service provides equipment and resources to support this aim.

Disability parking places are provided in the undercover park beside the library, with ramp access on the southern side of the library.

Lift access to the first floor is available from inside the library. Wheelchair accessible toilets are located on both levels of the library.

The Toowoomba Regional Council provides the basic infrastructure and the operating costs for the services and acknowledges the support of the Toowoomba City Friends of the Library.

Equipment

• SARAH Reader:
  • converts printed text to a computer generated voice.
  • used to magnify material.
  • Can also change the image from positive to negative.
  • Suitable for people with restricted vision.
  • Applications include viewing bills, legal documents, photographs,and writing letters.

• Height adjustable desk - a desk which has motorised height adjustment at the press of a button. Suits most wheelchairs.
• Personal computer - personal computer with an oversized monitor, adaptive keyboards and trackball mouse. Internet access is also available.
• Colour Printer - 20c per page for black and white, $2.00 per page for colour.
• Scanner - produces good quality copies of photographs and printed material.
• Intellikeys - an expanded keyboard which is suitable for many different people. Its large size makes it useful for people with low vision, but it is particularly useful for people with limited hand and arm movement. There are a number of different keyboards available depending on the user's requirement. Key guards can be attached for people who use pointers.
• TTY (Telephone Typewriters) - for people with hearing or speech impairment. A telephone with a keyboard whereby conversations are typed rather than spoken. Can be used in conjunction with other TTY's or through a relay service such as ACE (Australian Communication Exchange). For outgoing calls only.
• TV and video/dvd player - for viewing standard.

Bookings are essential and can be made on 4688 6670.

Staff assistance for using the equipment is available Monday - Friday from 9.30 am - 5.00 pm. If staff assistance is required, please request at the time of booking.

The Access centre meeting room will comfortably seat up to 25 people.