The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is improving access with the introduction of two innovative services designed to enhance customer experience. In support of our goal to Reach Out and Welcome All to the library, these services support our diverse community and set visitors up for success. With a cutting-edge wayfinding system for individuals with visual impairments and on-demand language interpretation, APLD is striving to create a welcoming space for everyone.
To help bring this vision to life, APLD has introduced RightHear, a navigation app that provides audio descriptions of library spaces and services, ensuring greater independence for individuals with visual impairments. “Customers use a free app downloaded to their device that helps them explore, navigate, and experience the library safely and independently,” explained deputy director, Tom. Piloted at the Santori Library in downtown Aurora, RightHear ‘beacons’ are placed strategically throughout all three floors and outside the building. Customers with visual impairments, visual disabilities, or those who might want additional wayfinding support can all benefit from this service. During the launch event for RightHear, a father with a teenage son who has low vision were in attendance and expressed excitement about the app’s capabilities.” As we used the service to demonstrate how the app audibly described library spaces, I could see a smile form on his face as he recognized how this service would benefit him personally,” Tom recounted.
In addition to using RightHear to navigate the physical spaces of the library, APLD uses the translation service Boostlingo, to navigate customer communication. Boostlingo provides on-demand interpretation in over 200 languages! Now customers who interact with the library, whether in-person or over the phone, can receive help regardless of their primary language. “Library staff utilizes this service to better serve our customers with limited English proficiency, as the responsibility is on us to remove a common barrier to engage our diverse community,” said Eola Road Branch manager, Krista. “Customers can access their library without concern for whether or not we speak the same language.” The interpreters are friendly, patient, and experienced in working with staff and customers from libraries and other social service agencies. Connecting is a breeze and available in a variety of formats, including video. “We recently had a wonderful experience with an Arabic-speaking student who wanted a tour of the library,” added Krista. “We connected to an Arabic-speaking video interpreter on an iPad that we use for this sole purpose. The student asked several questions throughout, which were fluidly interpreted back in English. The student was beaming at the end, thanking staff and the interpreter.” This service is an undeniable resource in securing a more inclusive environment for our community.
APLD acknowledges our responsibility to ensure that all members of our community can easily access the library for their enrichment and personal growth. To learn more about these and other accessibility initiatives, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/accessibility or contact the library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.