At the St. Louis County Library (SLCL), assistive technology plays a pivotal role in making knowledge accessible and empowering for those with visual impairments. SLCL’s Library of Things includes accessibility kits and specialized high-tech tools for readers with blindness, low vision, or dyslexia.

These kits are available to anyone with an SLCL card for 21-day checkout include:

• Visual Accessibility Kits include:
  • Ruby XL HD, a portable handheld video 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 to fine-tune color temperature and brightness.
  • Optelec PowerMag 3.5, an LED angled handheld magnifier—perfect for reading tasks in any lighting situation.
• Dyslexia Kit: a reading pen with a text-to-speech scanner, colored overlays for print and screen reading, and guided reading strips.

All SLCL branches have Optelec PowerMag 3.5 magnifiers available for in-library use.

Beyond the kits, specialized high-tech tools can be borrowed via the Library of Things. These tools are available for 3-month checkouts, are limited to St. Louis County residents, and require an application:

• OrCam MyEye 3 Pro: A wearable tool 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 with a 12-inch touchscreen tablet that includes a foldable stand for stationary use.
• LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader: An automatic text-to-speech reader that scans printed documents and reads them out loud.

The assistive technology available in these resources are more than gadgets—they’re gateways to independence and enriched daily living.

Getting your hands on technology is just the first step—understanding how to use it is just as important. SLCL offers personalized support through its “Book a Trainer” service!

Patrons can schedule a one-on-one appointment to receive personalized help navigating digital technology and assistive tools.

Support is flexible: offered in person at branches, or remotely via phone, email, or Zoom, depending on personal preference or need.

This kind of tailored training helps ensure that whether you’re trying these tools for the first time or wanting to refine your skills, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re borrowing a video magnifier, experimenting with an AI-powered reader, or getting guided support via a trainer, SLCL is breaking down barriers to discovery. The combination of cutting-edge accessibility tools and compassionate one-on-one assistance underscores SLCL’s commitment to inclusion—affirming that all patrons deserve full access to learning and literacy.