You and Your Library: Resources for the Whole Community

by
Beth Perry
Director of State Government Information Services at the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), Rhode Island Department of Administration

Public libraries are valuable community resources. And yet, not all people in Rhode Island know about or use their libraries. I am particularly concerned about the use (or non-use) of libraries by people with disabilities. To that end, I would like to reacquaint you with your public library.

Libraries in Rhode Island are committed to providing a wide variety of resources for their users. Since libraries cannot own everything, librarians spend many hours determining what resources are best suited to their community. They have also forged alliances to quickly acquire materials that are not available locally. This is accomplished through the Cooperating Libraries Automated Network (CLAN) and a delivery service operated by the Office of Library and Information Services. This network makes the materials of RI libraries available to all Rhode Islanders who have a CLAN library card. For example, if you want a book that’s available in Newport, but you live in Woonsocket, that book can be quickly delivered to your library.

The American Library Association (ALA) recognizes that people with disabilities are a large and neglected minority in the community and states that libraries play a catalytic role in the lives of people with disabilities by facilitating their full participation in society. The Association’s Library Services to People with Disabilities Policy states that libraries shall ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to library resources. It also states that libraries should include persons with disabilities as participants in the planning, implementing and evaluating of library services, programs and facilities.

Libraries have changed with the times

Libraries are places of opportunity. They are places for education and self-help. And because they offer free access to all, they bring opportunity to all.

Libraries will serve you in person, by telephone and online. Where else can you have access to nearly anything on the Web or in print as well as personal service and assistance in finding it?

Librarians are on the forefront of the information age. In a world that's information rich, they are information smart, and help ensure a society where everyone is information literate. You'll find the right answer at your public library.

Do you agree with these statements? Explore your public library, and remember, if you can’t find something, ask! If you feel your needs aren’t being met, talk with the Director. Librarians in Rhode Island will welcome your input.

What if you need special resources?

Libraries provide a variety of materials and resources to meet the needs of all users. More and more libraries are acquiring adaptive equipment. However, if you have special needs that cannot be fully met by your public library, there are some special resources available. Talking Books Plus, the RI Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, provides books and magazines on tape to qualifying individuals. Alternative document centers provide state government information in alternative formats.

Rhode Island’s librarians are interested in seeing that you are able to use your library. They are available to help you with your information needs, and will make every effort to accommodate your special needs. Make your needs known, for only you can tell us what you need from your libraries!

TechACCESS of RI
Phone: 401-463-0202 (v/tdd)
FAX: 401-463-3433
In-State: 800-916-(TECH)8324
Contact: TechACCESS of RI | techaccess@techaccess-ri.org|

Last Revised: May 30, 2002