Library Equal Access Program
The Library Equal Access Program (LEAP) provides services to patrons with disabilities and supports access to our programs and services. We also offer accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
LEAP Lab
LEAP’s Drop-in Assistive Technology Lab is located on Level 1 of the Central Library. LEAP staff are available to support patrons in the use the Library’s assistive technology, provide support with the use of patrons’ own assistive technology, and answer questions about accessibility.
Drop-in hours are Mondays from 2 – 6 p.m., and Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 – 6 p.m. If you are unable to make it during these hours or unable to come to the Central Library, please contact LEAP at leap@spl.org or 206-615-1380 V/TTY to arrange an appointment at the LEAP lab or at a Library branch near you.
LEAP staff members are available to visit senior centers, assisted living facilities, classrooms and other organizations and groups to talk about how our services can provide people with improved access to all that we have to offer.
Library Equal Access Program Video
Assistive Equipment, Software and Online Resources
All branches offer:
- JAWS screen reader software allows computer users to read text on a computer screen with a speech synthesizer or braille display.
- ZoomText screen magnification software allows computer users to magnify and enhance the text on a computer screen.
- An accessibility toolkit with a variety of magnifiers and writing guides to use in the Library.
At Central Library and other listed branches:
- Refreshable braille displays allow computer users to read and input text on a computer screen using braille. 80-cell braille displays are available at Central Library in the LEAP lab on Level 1 and the Mixing Chamber on Level 5. 40-cell braille displays are available at the Broadview, Columbia, Southwest and University branches.
- CCTV Magnifiers are video magnification systems that allow patrons to magnify and enhance printed and handwritten text and images for greater accessibility. There are CCTV Magnifiers at the Central Library in the LEAP lab and in the Mixing Chamber. They are also available at the Lake City and Rainier Beach branches.
- Two height-adjustable computer desks are in the LEAP lab. There is also one height- adjustable computer desk at the Lake City Branch.
At Central Library:
- Polly® is an electronic braille learning device that teaches reading, typing, writing, vocabulary, and spelling in both contracted and uncontracted braille using a gamified approach. Polly® is available for patrons to use in the LEAP lab.
- A braille embosser, available in the LEAP lab, allows patrons to print documents in braille.
- DaVinci Pro is a high-performance desktop video magnifier (CCTV), featuring a Full HD 1080p 3-in-1 camera and Full Page Text-to-Speech (OCR). The Davinci Pro is available for patrons to use in the LEAP lab.
- PageFlip Lite automatic page turner works with conventional printed books. Users can attach up to 10 sheets (20 pages) to dedicated page turning arms and tap the included wireless pedal to turn pages in either direction. The PageFlip Lite is available for patrons to use in the LEAP lab.
- Tactile Graphics Kit is an extensive set of tools and materials that allows teachers, transcribers, and mobility instructors to create custom raised-line maps, graphs, diagrams, and charts. The Tactile Graphics Kit is available for patrons to use in the LEAP lab.
- A video phone on Level 1 of the Central Library allows Deaf and hard of hearing patrons to make ASL-interpreted phone calls, or to converse directly with other ASL signers.
Online:
- American Sign Language (ASL) - Mango Languages - This American Sign Language course is offered online through Mango Languages partner, ASL Inside.
Mobile Services
We bring your Library to you! If you live in Seattle and can’t make it to a branch due to age, disability or an illness that keeps you at home for at least six months, we can deliver to you.
Library Tours
American Sign Language interpreted and sight-guided tours are available with advanced scheduling. To schedule a tour, please email our LEAP lab or call 206-615-1380 (V/TTY).
The Washington Talking Book & Braille Library
The Washington Talking Book & Braille Library is an additional resource in the Seattle area that offers services throughout the state to people who are blind, deaf/blind, visually impaired, or have a physical or learning disability. You can reach them at 206-615-0400.