A variety of simple assistive devices are available for use inside all SFPL libraries. Ask for them at reference desks at each branch library and on floors 3 - 6 of the Main Library.
Assistive Devices for People who are Blind or have Vision Disabilities
Ergotouch" 2X hand-held magnifier
This is an economically priced and effective magnifying glass. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Magnifying sheet - 8.5" X 11"
The size of this is magnifier makes it useful for viewing illustrations, maps, etc. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Signature guide
When placed on a sheet where people need to sign their name, this simple tool makes it easier for users to write in the correct location. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Page writing guide / reading guide
Standard line spacing makes this useful for people filling out print forms. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
18-Inch Braille+Large Print Ruler
This simple desk tool has universally accessible design. SOURCE: American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
Sanford 20/20 pen
The unscented ink from these inexpensive bold pens doesn’t bleed through paper. Bold lines are easier for people with low vision to read. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Assistive Devices for People who have Dexterity Disabilities
Roberts Book Holder
Accommodates books and magazines of varied sizes and weights. SOURCE: The Wright Stuff
Pencil Grip(for children or adults with smaller hands)
Pencil Grip Jumbo (for adults with larger hands)
Ergo Pencil Grips provide greater comfort and control for both right and left handed users, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Fit on most any pencil or pen. SOURCE: Peterson Directed Handwriting
Assistive Device for People who are Hard of Hearing
Pocketalker Ultra Amplifier with Neckloop
This small personal amplifier, for one-on-one communications, can be used at a service desk, when walking with a person to the stacks, or in a public computer class or program. The neckloop is used by people who have personal hearing aids.
Headphones
Used with the Pocketalker by people who don’t have hearing aids.
Headphone Disposable Covers
Made of sheer, medical grade poly, these should be replaced after each use. SOURCE: Hearing / Communication / Technology, San Francisco
Assistive Devices for People who have Learning Disabilities
18-Inch Braille+Large Print Ruler
This simple desk tool has universally accessible design. Rulers can help people write more legibly by providing a horizontal line to use as a reference. They can also be placed under the line of text currently being read, so that the reader is not distracted by the text that immediately follows. SOURCE: American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
Ergotouch" 2X hand-held magnifier
This is an economically priced and effective magnifying glass. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Magnifying sheet - 8.5" X 11"
The size of this is magnifier makes it useful for viewing illustrations, maps, etc. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Pencil Grip(for children or adults with smaller hands)
Pencil Grip Jumbo (for adults with larger hands)
Ergo Pencil Grips provide greater comfort and control for both right and left handed users, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Fit on most any pencil or pen. SOURCE: Peterson Directed Handwriting