What are effective library services for patrons who are hard of hearing?

1 Assistive Technology

One of the most important library services for patrons who are hard of hearing is the provision of assistive technology. Assistive technology is any device or software that helps people with hearing loss communicate, access information, or participate in activities. Some examples of assistive technology are hearing aids, cochlear implants, FM systems, captioning, video relay, and text-to-speech. Libraries can offer assistive technology in various ways, such as lending devices, installing equipment, providing training, or hosting workshops. Assistive technology can enhance the library experience for patrons who are hard of hearing by enabling them to hear better, read more, and interact more.

2 Accessible Collections

Another effective library service for patrons who are hard of hearing is the development of accessible collections. Accessible collections are materials that are designed or adapted to meet the needs and preferences of people with hearing loss. Some examples of accessible collections are books with large print, audiobooks with captions, DVDs with subtitles, e-books with text-to-speech, and magazines with QR codes. Libraries can create accessible collections by selecting, acquiring, cataloging, and displaying materials that are suitable for patrons who are hard of hearing. Accessible collections can enrich the library experience for patrons who are hard of hearing by offering them more choices, formats, and content.

3 Inclusive Programs

A third effective library service for patrons who are hard of hearing is the delivery of inclusive programs. Inclusive programs are events or activities that are planned and executed with the consideration and involvement of people with hearing loss. Some examples of inclusive programs are book clubs with sign language interpreters, storytimes with visual aids, workshops with captioning, lectures with FM systems, and webinars with chat options. Libraries can conduct inclusive programs by consulting, collaborating, and communicating with patrons who are hard of hearing, as well as with other organizations and experts. Inclusive programs can improve the library experience for patrons who are hard of hearing by fostering their learning, engagement, and socialization.

5 Outreach Services

A fifth effective library service for patrons who are hard of hearing is the delivery of outreach services. Outreach services are initiatives that reach out to and serve people with hearing loss who may not be able to visit the library regularly or at all. Some examples of outreach services are home delivery, mobile library, online library, community partnerships, and advocacy. Libraries can perform outreach services by identifying, contacting, and visiting patrons who are hard of hearing, as well as by collaborating with other agencies and groups that serve them. Outreach services can enrich the library experience for patrons who are hard of hearing by providing them with access, convenience, and connection.

6 Feedback Mechanisms

A sixth effective library service for patrons who are hard of hearing is the establishment of feedback mechanisms. Feedback mechanisms are ways of collecting and responding to the opinions, suggestions, and complaints of patrons who are hard of hearing. Some examples of feedback mechanisms are surveys, comment cards, focus groups, suggestion boxes, and social media. Libraries can implement feedback mechanisms by inviting, encouraging, and acknowledging the input of patrons who are hard of hearing, as well as by acting on and reporting the results. Feedback mechanisms can improve the library experience for patrons who are hard of hearing by allowing them to express their needs, preferences, and satisfaction.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?