VRI Provides Interpretation for Hearing Impaired; Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Resource Fair Feb. 17
The Library has a new service to help eliminate communication barriers for patrons with hearing impairments. It’s called Video Remote Interpretation, or VRI, and it allows patrons to converse in real time with a trained American Sign Language interpreter about a library service or research request.
The service is available at the Library Center, Library Station, Midtown Carnegie and Schweitzer Brentwood branches.
No scheduling is required and the service is free for patrons through the Library. Propio Language Services has a network of independently contracted interpreters, so interpreters are available 365 days a year.
Here’s how it works:
- The patron and library staff member use an iPad already loaded with VRI, and dial into the service via the internet.
- When the call is connected, an off-site interpreter appears on the monitor.
- Using the videoconferencing technology, the interpreter can then translate conversations from the library staff’s spoken English to American Sign Language for the patron.
“The Library is a place for all community members, regardless if they have a disability or not, says Library Station librarian Tysha Shay. “We want to provide services and materials that are accessible to all and help those with disabilities use their library as independently as they want.” Library staff will still assist patrons who prefer to write down their questions on paper.
The four branches also have other assistive apps including special-use iPads with extra-large display; electronic magnifying glass with light; and the TapTapSee object identification program.
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Many grandparents have the joys and challenges of raising their grandchildren. If you are one, or know someone who is, an upcoming resource fair could help make life easier. The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Resource Fair is planned from 1-4 p.m. on Feb. 17, at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library. Registration starts February 2; call 417-862-0135 for details. The event is sponsored by the Library, Grands Raising Grands and NAACP, Be a Jewel.
This free event will provide grandparent families with a one-stop-shop of community resources. Watch thelibrary.org for details.
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