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Dyslexia and Print Disability Resources: Home

Resources for patrons who have a print disability and for patrons, parents, and teachers who have people with a print disability in their lives.

Welcome

Welcome to St. Louis County Library's Print Disabilities Resources guide. This guide can be used to browse the many different resources the library has for learning about print disabilities, using accessible library resources, using accessibility features on computers and devices, creating accessible materials, and more. 

Introduction

What is a print disability? 

A print disability is any barrier a person might have to using traditional print materials. Examples of print disabilities include but are not limited to: dyslexia, low vision, blindness, learning disabilities, neurological differences, and physical difficulties related to manipulating a paper book.

What is assistive technology?

According to the Assistive Technology Act of 2004, assistive technology is "any product, device, or equipment, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that is used to maintain, increase, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities." Assistive technology can include things like screen readers, closed captioning, accessibility settings, and alternative keyboards.

How can the St. Louis County Library help?

The resources in this LibGuide fall into two categories. The first four tabs are for people who have print disabilities and want to access the library's materials as well as materials and resources outside of the library. The next two tabs are for people who want to learn more about what print disabilities are and how to create a print disability-inclusive environment. The Outside Resources tab contains resources for both groups.

Happy exploring!

SLCL's Accessibility Tools: Specialized Items

The St. Louis County Library offers a selection of accessibility tools for patrons with low vision or blindness. Patrons requesting specialized items must meet certain eligibility requirements and apply to be considered in a lottery. Specialized items may be checked out for three months. Currently, the St. Louis County Library offers the following items in the lottery:

  • OrCam MyEye 3 Pro -- A wearable visual impairment solution that helps you read text, recognize faces, identify products, and more. The device attaches to glasses and comes with a stand for stationary use, as well as a small Bluetooth speaker.
  • HumanWare Explore 12 -- Electronic portable HD video magnifier: This 12-inch touchscreen tablet includes a foldable stand for stationary use.
  • LyriQ Assistive Reader -- An automatic text-to-speech reader that scans printed documents and reads them out loud.

For more information about the specialized items, please view the Accessibility Tools page on the St. Louis County Library website.

Dyslexia Kits

SLCL's Dysdyslexia kits graphiclexia Kits are available for in branch use or to check out. Each kit contains a reading pen with a text-to-speech scanner, colored overlays for print and screen reading, and guided reading strips.

Dyslexia Resources for Kids in the Library Videos

Image of computer and books on desk

View the "Dyslexia Resources for Kids in the Library" video tutorial.

SLCL's Accessibility Tools: Visual Accessibility Kits

The St. Louis County Library offers items for check out that enhance the reading experience for anyone struggling with a print disability, whether it be a visual impairment or learning disability. These items are available to all St. Louis County Library cardholders with no eligibility requirements and may be checked out for 21 days:

  • Ruby XL HD -- A portable, handheld video magnifier with a 5-megapixel, auto-focus camera providing sharp HD quality images that are easily viewed on its full color, 5-inch LCD screen.
  • Elumentis LED Lamp -- An adjustable LED Lamp allowing users to select the optimal light color temperature and brightness level they need to maximize their viewing environment.
  • Optelec PowerMag 3.5 -- LED Angled Hand-Held Magnifier great for those with limited dexterity.

For more information about the Visual Accessibility Kits, please view the Accessibility Tools page on the St. Louis County Library website.