Accessibility at Harry Bailey Memorial Library

Published on 20 March 2023

Wendy-using-scanning-pen.jpg

Providing access to FREE library resources to all members of our community is really important. Here are 2 ways in which Coffs Harbour Libraries are providing accessibility to all lifelong learners.

Dyslexic Books  Dyslexic_Reader.png

Coffs Harbour Libraries have a collection of junior fiction books in a special font designed to alleviate some of the difficulties typically reported by readers with dyslexia, such as swapping or flipping letters and skipping lines without noticing.

Dyslexic Books are specially formatted books for people with dyslexia. Dyslexia associations around the world estimate that dyslexia affects approximately 10-15% of the population.

Our Dyslexic Book features:

  • bolds the bottom of letters
  • gives letters larger openings
  • slants similar looking letters
  • improves layout of text on page
  • bolds capitals
  • improves spacing between letters & words

C-Pen ReaderScnaning-pen-box-image.jpg

Thanks to a generous donation from one of our long standing housebound library service recipients, the Herford family, we have been able to purchase a scanning pen for library members to use in the library during opening hours.

The C-Pen Reader 2 is held and operated much like a highlighter, and when text is scanned by the pen it will read it out loud. It will hopefully encourage reluctant readers to read and can boost self-confidence and reduce stress & reading anxiety.

The Scanning Pen will be useful in a variety of situations such as: 

  • For people with reading difficulties such as dyslexia, autism, ADHD, etc.
  • For those with a low reading level
  • CALD community whose first language is not English
  • Public programs and activities

If you are not already a member of the Coffs Harbour Libraries sign up today and explore the opportunities.

You can access resources at Harry Bailey Memorial Library in central Coffs Harbour, as well as at our branches at Woolgoolga and Toormina. 

Join the library today!