WATCH: Exploring assistive technology at Thurles Library

According to the National Disability Authority, assistive technology are devices both high and low tech that help people with disabilities and the elderly with their daily lives.

Thurles library has a range of resources, including devices, spaces and online resources that can help.

Senior Library Assistant at Thurles Library Anne Kinsella gave the Tipperary Star a tour of the resources available.

“If you are looking to borrow anything, make contact. We are always happy to help,” said Anne.

Here are some of what Thurles Library has to offer.

C-Pen

The C-pen is a small device that reads written text and calls it out to the reader.

Not unlike a highlighter, a user runs the C-Pen along the text, and the device reads the text aloud.

The C-Pen retails at around €300, so Anne said the library got in a few. Library members can borrow the C-Pen for up to three months at a time and decide if it suits them.

The pen is not for everyone though, and right now, it isn’t great with Irish, but for those who may struggle with dyslexia and reading in English, the C-Pen may be a gamechanger.

Magic Table

The magic table projects games, mindfulness exercises and other activities onto a table. Designed in the Netherlands, the Magic Table helps people with learning disabilities and those with dementia improve movement, reduce stress and promote social interaction.

It has an interactive sensor, so it knows when you are playing, allowing users can collect leaves, play bingo or watch the stars.

Groups and individuals can book the table by contacting the library. 

Acorn Tab

Anne described the Acorn Tab as a ‘stripped-down tablet,’ and it’s for elderly people who may not have a lot of experience with technology. It has some basic functions like email, calls, messages and contacts.

For those just learning to use a computer, it may be a less overwhelming option.

“It just keeps it really simple, you know” said Anne.

Sensory Services

Thurles Library boasts a range of sensory toys, a pod and quiet spaces.

Social Stories are a set of cards describing how the library works for those who might find the idea of visiting overwhelming.

Anne says this can help people to join the library without worrying about not knowing what to do.

Sensory toys can be borrowed by teachers, therapists and other professionals to work with their clients.

And the sensory pod is a cosy, quiet space for those who need a break.

Online Resources

Online, the library has audiobooks, e-books, language courses and many other services.

There is a special font for people with dyslexia to make it easier to read.

LOTE4Kids is a service that provides books for children in languages other than English.

Touch-Type Read and Spell is an online service for people with conditions like dyslexia, dyspraxia, ASD or those in stroke recovery.

For more information on these resources and more, visit your local library or get in touch online.