Libraries are places where everyone should feel welcome to discover, learn, create, and connect. This July, the ORL is celebrating Disability Pride Month by recognizing disability as a natural part of the diversity that strengthens our communities. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the many ways people experience books, technology, learning, and the library itself.
If you have a print disability, a Print Disabled Library Card can open the door to a wide range of accessible reading options. Designed for people with low or no vision, physical disabilities that make it difficult to handle printed materials, or learning disabilities that affect reading comprehension, this card provides access to specialized collections and services through the ORL. Cards are also available for care homes, organizations, and businesses that support people with print disabilities.
Whether listening to audiobooks, reading large print, exploring braille, borrowing adaptive technology, or discovering new ways to access information, the ORL offers a growing range of accessibility services designed to help more people enjoy everything the library has to offer.
Reading Looks Different for Everyone
There isn’t just one way to read. For some people, reading means turning the pages of a favourite novel. For others, it’s listening to an audiobook during a walk, enlarging the text on an ebook, reading braille, or accessing books in alternative formats.
The ORL’s Accessible Reading Services help connect readers with the format that works best for them.
Eligible patrons can access thousands of titles through the Centre for Equitable Library Access (CELA) and the National Network for Equitable Library Service (NNELS). These services provide books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials in accessible formats, including audiobooks, braille, DAISY books, portable audiobook players, and more.
The ORL also offers Large Print collections, downloadable ebooks and audiobooks through the Digital Collection, and a Selection Service for eligible patrons.
Whatever your reading journey looks like, library staff are always happy to help you discover the resources that best meet your needs.
Explore Accessible Technology
Accessibility extends beyond reading. The ORL’s Library of Things includes several collections that encourage patrons to explore assistive technology and discover tools that can make everyday computer use more comfortable and accessible.
The Ergonomic Essentials Keyboard Edition and Mouse Edition allow patrons to try a variety of ergonomic keyboards and computer mice before deciding whether a particular style works best for them. These kits can benefit anyone looking for greater comfort while working, studying, or using a computer.
The Vision Tech Kit introduces devices that support people with low vision, while the Braille Discovery Kit offers a hands-on opportunity to learn about braille and tactile literacy. Whether you’re supporting a family member, exploring accessibility, or simply curious to learn something new, these kits help build understanding while introducing helpful technologies.
Accessibility Is an Ongoing Commitment
Creating an accessible library means continually looking for ways to reduce barriers and improve the experience for everyone. From expanding accessible reading services and introducing adaptive technology to strengthening accessibility through organizational planning and policy development, the ORL continues to build libraries that are welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our communities. Accessibility benefits everyone. Features originally designed to support one person often make the library easier and more enjoyable for many others as well.
Celebrate Disability Pride Month with the ORL
Disability Pride Month is an invitation to celebrate inclusion, learn from one another, and recognize that every person experiences the world a little differently. This July, we invite you to explore the ORL’s Accessible Reading Services, discover adaptive technology through the Library of Things, or visit your local branch to learn more about the many resources available throughout our library system.
Together, we’re building incredible community libraries where everyone belongs.
Need More Help?
Call us at 1-844-649-8127 or email help@orl.bc.ca. Please include as many details as you can about your question, account, or device. This helps us support you more quickly and accurately.
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