Low Vision Help at Bloomingdale Public Library

Low vision affects more than three million Americans, and that number is expected to grow as the population ages. Low vision can make it more difficult to do routine daily tasks, job related tasks, and leisure activities. The Bloomingdale Public Library provides many resources to help those coping with this serious problem.

Through a generous donation from the Friends of the Bloomingdale Public Library and the Bloomingdale Lions Club, the Library now offers a state-of-the-art closed-circuit TV (CCTV) digital magnifier that allows those with low vision to read a book, sort their bills, or decipher a prescription bottle. The maximum magnification of the new CCTV magnifier is 75x. The machine is designed for easy use, and any Adult Services staff member can help patrons get started using this helpful magnifier.

The Library also circulates many assistive devices for those living with vision loss. The Library’s large collection of over 20 portable magnifiers allows people to determine which ones best fit their needs. Other items that are available to check out include large-print playing cards, a large-numbered kitchen timer, a talking alarm clock, and other items that make living with low vision more manageable.

Avid readers can make use of the large audiobook collection and are eligible to use the Illinois Talking Book Outreach Center service, in which audiobooks are delivered directly to the home via mail. Contact the Center at 800-426-0709 or visit their website at www.illinoistalkingbooks.org. The Bloomingdale Public Library hopes to provide good solutions for those facing many challenges associated with coping with vision loss.