Printer
TextOverview of Services
The Access Services branch of the Fairfax County Public Library removes barriers to library services for people with permanent and temporary disabilities. If you or someone you know cannot read standard printed materials or cannot get to a library, we can help!
Assistive
Technology
Visitors to Access Services may use screen reader software, screen
magnification software, text-to-speech reading equipment, braille
embossing equipment, a digital CD player, a refreshable braille display,
and tabletop and portable CCTV magnification devices. We have a selection
of hand-held lighted magnifiers and portable assistive listening systems
available for borrowing. Demonstrations are available by appointment.
Please reserve lighted magnifiers and assistive listening systems two
weeks in advance.
Deposit
Collection Service
Access Services provides rotating collections of large print and regular
print library books to senior centers, retirement communities, hospitals,
and other eligible organizations located in Fairfax County. Titles are
selected to match reading interests of clients in each institutional
setting.
Home Delivery
Service
Readers in Fairfax County who are unable to travel to a local library
due to disability, illness, or frailty may be eligible for free home
delivery of library materials. Written certification may be required.
Newsletter
Our free newsletter, Loud & Clear,
is distributed in Braille, audio and email formats and is posted here.
Presentations
Access Services staff members are available by appointment to present
free talks and workshops about our specialized library services. Topics
can be tailored to meet the needs of your group. Please request programs
at least two weeks in advance. We also welcome invitations to exhibit at
wellness fairs and other community events.
Special
Library Collections in Access
Services
The Disability Awareness Collection offers books and other materials
related to learning about and managing disabilities. Our
Audio-Described DVDs are classic, popular, and award-winning movies
containing special descriptive narration for people with low vision or
blindness. We also lend a variety of multimedia nostalgia kits designed
for use by groups of older adults.
Talking Book
Program
Our talking book service provides audio books and playing equipment free
of charge by mail. Individuals of all ages who are unable to read or use
standard print due to blindness, visual impairment, or physical
limitations are eligible for the program. Access Services administers the
Talking Book Program for Fairfax County and for the cities of Fairfax and
Falls Church on behalf of the Library of Congress. An application
form (313K pdf file) is required for certification.
Note: Adobe Reader is required to view this PDF file.
To obtain a free Reader, follow this link:
Vision Support
Groups and Book Discussion Groups
We sponsor support groups and assist book discussion groups for adults
who are coping with the loss of sight. Groups meet at libraries and other
locations throughout Fairfax County.
Volunteers
For a rewarding and fun experience, become an Access Services volunteer.
Our wonderful volunteers help us by leading book discussions and support
groups, processing audio and large print materials, performing data entry
and office support tasks, serving on our Friends group, and much more.
Website Survey 