People with a disability

We're working to make our libraries easier to access for people with disability.

We've included information about building access, parking and toilets on each of our library location pages. Visit our library location pages

Accessible Collections

Our libraries offer a range of accessible formats to support different reading needs:

Audiobooks: available in CD, MP3, and digital format.

Dyslexic-friendly books: printed with a font designed to alleviate some of the difficulties typically reported by readers with dyslexia and reformatted to improve the spacing between letters, lines and words.

Large print books:over 10,000 titles across genres including fiction, mystery, romance and westerns.

Read-along books: physical books for preschool and primary school-aged kids that include a permanently attached reader preloaded with high-quality narration.

Click on the Button to search the catalogue to start browsing our accessible collections online.

Search the catalogue

Digital collections

Library members can access thousands of digital items from home using their library card and password:

• Audiobooks: stream or download classic, bestselling, and new release titles.
• eBooks: read on your preferred device.
• Films and TV series streaming: watch film and television online. 
• Magazines and newspapers: browse a wide range of topics and publications.

Each digital platform we offer includes information about its accessibility features, such as screen reader compatibility, text resizing and closed captions.

Click here to access our digital library resources.

Assistive Equipment and technology

Magnifier on Public PCs

Our public PCs have Windows Magnifier enabled that can make part or all of your screen bigger so you can see words and images better.

Reader Pen (C Pen Reader20

This pen reads text out loud and will look up word definitions. It supports independent reading and learning. Please ask our staff on Level 2 if you would like to use it.

Vision Australia keyboards

Available at all library locations, these high-contrast keyboards feature black text on yellow keys with print four times larger than standard keyboards.

Pearl Reading Camera

Available on Level 2 of Harry Bailey Memorial Library, the reading camera works with OpenBook Software to all vision impaired people to read books, magazines and documents. How to use documents are available in Braille.

Communications and sensory support

All library locations offer a communication board – a visual aid with symbols and words to support people with communication difficulties. Users can point to symbols to help express themselves.

Download a copy of the Communication Board(PDF, 4MB).

Quiet Hour

Harry Bailey Memorial Library and Yarrila Arts and Museum hold a quiet hour each week to create a low-sensory, peaceful environment.

Harry Bailey Memorial Library Ground Floor and Young Fridays 4 - 5pm

Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) Fridays 3 - 4pm

Sensory Supports

Our libraries have sensory items available for all visitors to use during your time in the library. These items can support focus, relaxation, or create a sense of calm.

When can I use these items?

During your visit to the library. Sensory items can be useful:

• During Story Time or Rhyme Time
• While you are studying or working
• When browsing the shelves or reading

How do I get a sensory resource?

Ask a library staff member for a sensory resource. They will show you what is available, and you can choose one to use while in the library. Just return the item to a staff member when you have finished with it.

Can I borrow a sensory item?

If you want to take a sensory item home, you can borrow a Sensory backpack. This contains noise cancelling headphones and other textured and coloured items. You can borrow the backpack for two (2) weeks and bring it back to the library when you are finished.

Social stories

These are a social learning tool to help people with autism or other neuro diverse conditions prepare for a library visit. Our social stories are created to benefit the individual and their carers by allowing them to navigate our libraries safely - physically, socially and emotionally.

Visiting Harry Bailey Memorial Library (Coffs Harbour) social story(PDF, 9MB)

Visiting Toormina Library social story(PDF, 4MB)

Borrowing a library book social story(PDF, 2MB)