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For centuries, libraries have given us books (and later, other forms of media). But what if a library could lend the ability to learn, communicate, and move through life easier? That’s the type of library that the Benedictine campus hopes to open this August.
Assistive Technology (AT) is “any device, software, or tool that helps people maintain or improve their functional abilities.” It usually refers to things like text-to-speech devices for those who are non-verbal or have trouble speaking, mobility devices for those with physical disabilities or impairments, and flashing alarms for the deaf or hard of hearing. Any piece of technology you can think of that assists those with specific needs can be called AT.
But with so many individual needs and an increase in the aids that can be offered, it can sometimes be hard to figure out what works best for you. After all, not all hearing aids or screen readers are created equal! The Adult Services team at Benedictine sees this new AT library as somewhere that those with any kind of disability can go to test a piece of equipment. And the good news is, it’s open to the public.
The library “will provide a variety of learning, communication and other aids,” said Benedictine’s Adult Services staff, “The library will be open to the general public on the Eastern Shore and will provide options for a variety of disabilities – not just limited to intellectual or developmental disabilities. Those who visit the library will be able to test out the technology for a period of 30 to 60 days to determine if it is the right fit, and they can then request their own aid.”
The library is offered through a partnership with the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (MDDA). MDDA “will also be offering assessments to determine what aids would be helpful for different individuals,” the staff added. Benedictine’s AT library will be the only one of its kind on the Shore. “Opening a centrally located lending library was identified as a crucial need, fostering independence and meaningful lives,” they said. This new resource plans to open its doors in Mid-August.
