In an ongoing effort to provide access to all, the Yuma County Library District offers assistive technology for children, teens, and adults with mental and physical developmental disabilities as part of the LEADing (Libraries Enabling Assistive Discovery) Technology Project.
EQUIPMENT
Unless otherwise noted, equipment is located at the Main Library. Devices are for in-house use only. If you are interested in using a piece of equipment, please ask a staff member.
The Closed Circuit Television Enlarger (CCTV) enlarges printed material 45-60 times, making it easier for those who are vision impaired to read and view.
Document Camera
IPEVO High-Definition Document Cameras can be connected directly to a computer to enlarge and photograph printed materials to assist individuals with vision impairments. Built-in buttons on the camera allow the user to rotate images, apply image filters, adjust exposure, re-focus, and more. Available at Main, Heritage, Foothills, Wellton, Somerton, San Luis, Dateland & Roll
FM Assistive Listening Devices are available upon request in library meeting rooms for those who are hearing impaired. Available at Main, Foothills, & San Luis
Interact-AS Live Captioning software that transcribes, translates, and displays spoken words for those who are hearing impaired is available in the first floor meeting rooms at the Main Library.
Job Access With Speech (JAWS) is a screen-reading software program that speaks and reads word processed documents, websites, databases, email messages, and more. It also allows for comprehensive keyboard interaction with the computer.
The LiveScribe 3 Smartpen uses an infrared camera and Bluetooth technology to transfer a person’s handwriting on paper to a device to help individuals with dyslexia and ADHD improve their comprehension skills.
The LUMOPlay system is an interactive floor and wall display software using a projector and a sensor. It encourages participants to be physically active while developing problem-solving and social skills.
The Promethean ActivTable is a multi-touch interactive table for learners. This empowers individuals to lead their own learning, driving engagement, participation, and creativity.
The Reading Edge is a reading machine that scans printed text and reads it back to the user.
TAPit Platform
The Touch Accessible Platform Interactive Technology (TAPit) is the first assistive learning center using “intended touch.” It enables individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices to have full access to their laptop. It also helps individuals with vision impairments.
The Trackball Mouse can be helpful to users who have limited fine motor skills.
Library staff have access to iPads with a TouchChat app to better assist non-verbal individuals. Available at Main & Foothills libraries
The Playstation 4 & Oculus Rift Virtual Reality Systems offer immersive learning for individuals with developmental disabilities. (Must be 13+)
The Wizcom Assistive Scanning Pen is a hand-held device that decodes and offers reading comprehension support. This will help readers improve their reading skills.
RESOURCES
Audiobooks are available for check-out on CD, and may also be downloaded from OverDrive and hoopla digital.
Disabled in Yuma is an extensive directory of organizations and suppliers. Disabled in Yuma Booklet 
DVDs with Closed Captioning and subtitles are available for check-out.
Large Type books and magazines are available for check-out and in-house use.
Sensory Toys
The Special Needs Resource Center in the Foothills Library houses toys and tools for children with sensory needs, as well as bilingual books for all ages about special needs.
In cooperation with the AZ Talking Book Library, the Yuma County Library District offers information, applications, and a machine exchange service for Talking Books. Located at the Heritage Library
EVENTS & PROGRAMS
To visit our Events Calendar for specific dates, times, and locations, click here
Sensory Storytimes – Children with special needs can enjoy stories, music, songs, and movement activities. Available at Main, Foothills, & Somerton. San Luis Sensory Storytimes coming soon.
Technology Petting Zoo – Ask questions and test out assistive devices.
Virtual Reality Series – Individuals learn-through-play using virtual reality games. (Must be 13+)
OUTREACH
Lobby Stops – Staff members bring a wide selection of library materials to residents of Yuma senior communities every other Wednesday. Residents are free to browse and select materials, or may request specific items for staff to bring.
Homebound – Staff members deliver library materials to individuals who are unable to access a Yuma County Library every other Thursday.
Please note, due to COVID-19 restrictions, lobby stops and homebound services are unavailable at this time.