# For the Visually Impaired
- The Merlin Ultra HD Video Magnifier is a full-color, auto-focus magnifier system that enables individuals with low vision to read, write, and even view photos. It offers full high-definition color and high-contrast positive or negative viewing modes. With easy-to-use buttons that are also distinguishable by touch, you can enlarge or reduce the page or image in seconds and change viewing modes for easier visibility. Donated by the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library, it is available for public use any time the Beaches Branch Library is open.
- Zoomtext and high-visibility keyboards are available at all library locations on ADA-compatible workstations. Windows also has accessibility features (Magnifier, Narrator, color filters, etc.) available on all other public computers. Call (904) 255-BOOK for more information.
- Hand-held magnifying glasses are available throughout the Jacksonville Public Library system.
# For the Hearing Impaired
Sorenson Video Relay System makes communication easy and convenient between people in the Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing communities. This technology is available at all library branches for people who use American Sign Language.
Library staff can direct you to the Sorenson VRS station at your local branch. The Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) Fund was established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Note: You must have a Sorenson account to use Sorenson Video Relay. However, once you sign up for a Sorenson VRS number on their website (under "Get Started"), you can make a call to a hearing person through Sorenson Video Relay using any product, even products from other VRS providers. The VRS service assigns a local 10-digit phone number and password to the subscriber. Users can also install these apps on smartphones, tablets, or a home computer.
# For Those with Sensory Sensitivities
Our Sensory Kits contain a variety of helpful items such as noise-reducing headphones, laminated communication cards, fidget tools, and a weighted lap blanket to help you have a more enjoyable experience in the library. Anyone is welcome to use any item from the Sensory Kit, no questions asked. Note: Noise-reducing headphones are child-sized.
The location of a Sensory Kit will vary by location but can often be found in the Children's Library or at the nearest Service Desk. Before you leave, simply return the items you've used to the designated used items box. It will be labeled with a sticker that reads: "Please return used sensory items here." Items will be sanitized after each use.
We also offer Sensory Friendly Storytimes at select locations. Designed for children (ages 2-5) with sensory sensitivities, it combines traditional storytime components with supportive elements. Note: Attendance is limited to enhance the experience.
# How To Request Accommodations at Public Programs
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request for public library programs. Please allow 1–2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Services at 255-2665 or email JPLPrograms@coj.net.
# Accessing the Digital and Physical Collections
#Libby by OverDrive
With Libby, you can borrow free ebooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your library. You can read on your desktop computer in your favorite browser or on your phone or tablet using the Libby app. You can even send and read your borrowed e-books to your Kindle e-reader!
Make Reading Easier with the OpenDyslexic Font
The Libby app is committed to making reading enjoyable and accessible for everyone, including those with dyslexia. In Libby, there’s an option to choose the OpenDyslexic font, a specially designed typeface that some find improves readability. The letters have a weighted, slightly more structured design that may make it easier to distinguish similar characters, reducing the likelihood of mixing up letters.Turning on the dyslexic font in Libby is quick and easy!
Here’s how:
✔️Open the book you’d like to read.
✔️Tap the center of the screen to open the menu.
✔️Tap the Reading Settings icon (it looks like an "A").
✔️Under "Book Design," tap OpenDyslexic to switch to this font.
More Accessibility Options:
The Libby app has several accessibility enhancements and customizations like:
- Screen reader support
- Zoom in or change the text size to make any ebook large print
- Reading in sepia, night mode, or increasing contrast
- Adjusting narration speed for audiobooks
To turn on several accessibility features, go to Menu > Settings > Accessibility.
Other features you may enjoy:
- Audiobook compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth
- Direct, in-app support (not just FAQs)
Get Libby and start reading now!
Libby is free to install and there are no subscription costs, no in-app purchases, and no late fees. It's completely free to use! All you need is a library card. Learn more about Libby here.
#Curbside Pickup of Library Materials
Do you have limited mobility or are you looking for a socially-distanced way to receive your library holds? Our convenient Curbside Pickup service makes picking up library materials you've placed on hold - like books, DVDs, and CDs - easier than ever before!
Pro Tip: "Place a Hold" doesn't always mean "go on a waiting list." You can use the hold feature to have a book sent from one location in Jacksonville to another one that's closer to you!
Curbside Holds Pickup in 4 Easy Steps
- Place Your Hold: Visit our catalog and search for books and other items you'd like to check out.
- Get Notified: You'll receive an email (or phone call) letting you know your item(s) are ready.
- Park in the Designated Spot: Call the number on the sign or sign in on the Jax Library app.
- Pick Up Your Items: Library staff will bring your items out to your car!
Please note: All Curbside service ends at 6 p.m. So, please be at your pickup location before that time. Curbside Service is available at all locations except the Main Library.
#Get Library Books by Mail, Delivered to Your Home
Jacksonville Public Library now offers a FREE service that delivers books and other library materials (via the United States Postal Service) to Duval County residents who are unable to visit the Library due to a temporary or permanent disability or illness.
Available materials include regular print books, large print books, audiobooks on CD, magazines, music CDs and DVDs. Note: We are unable to send Traveling Tales Kits or lendable technology (such as Chromebooks or hotspots) through the mail.
3 Ways to Apply for Books by Mail
- Complete the online Books by Mail Application
- Contact us by phone at (904) 255-2665.
- Request a paper application be sent in the mail.
Books by Mail customers receive deliveries in our convenient, reusable nylon bags. When you're done, you put your items back into the same bag, flip the address card over, and give it to your postal carrier. Postage is paid both ways, so there's no cost to you.
Learn more on our Books by Mail page.
#Get Talking Books and Braille via USPS
The Talking Books Library loans audiobooks and magazines, along with a player, FREE by mail to persons who have difficulty reading or using printed books and other materials because of blindness, or visual, physical, or reading disabilities.
Talking Books Library customers can also request Braille books for free.
Talking Books are full-length, unabridged books on digital cartridges (or in Braille) available for loan to eligible readers of all ages and interests, beginning with pre‑school. The Talking Books collection includes current bestsellers, romance, and mystery novels, literary fiction, non‑fiction such as science and history, print/Braille books for young readers, and over 70 current magazine subscriptions.
Eligibility Requirements
To register with Talking Books, you must fill out the application form and have it certified for eligibility. For persons who are blind or have a visual or physical disability, a doctor, nurse, social worker or other authority must certify eligibility. For persons with a reading disability, only doctors of medicine or osteopathy can certify eligibility.
Any United States resident of any age who meets one of the following criteria is eligible:
- Legal blindness
- Visual disability that makes it difficult to read or use standard printed materials*
- Physical disability that makes it difficult to hold a book or turn pages
- Reading disability (such as dyslexia)
- Institutions that serve eligible individuals
*Large Print readers are also eligible for Talking Books services. The eligibility criterion is established by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress.
Get BARD for your Smart Devices
Once you are registered, you can also apply for BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download). Digital materials may be downloaded at no cost directly to a smartphone or tablet or transferred from a computer to a USB drive (to be played on a Talking Books player).
Learn more on our Talking Books page.
More Questions?
- Phone: (904) 255-BOOK
- Email: JPLTBSpecialNeeds@coj.net
- Florida Relay: 711
The Florida Relay Service (711) is available on all standard telephones.
