Libraries

Meeting room sign with hearing loop symbol and the words "meeting room"
portable counter hearing loop at a library

Exeter Public Library. Photo courtesy of Laura Sinclair.

Portable counter hearing loop.

FM system in the theater at Boulder Public Library District – Main Library.

Many people’s lives have been deeply impacted by early, positive experiences in our public libraries. Children become avid readers, hobbies are inspired, and dreams for the future are fed by a life filled with books. Libraries are links that bring many different ages and interests together into an important location in every community.  They are a cultural amenity that serves everyone equally. Libraries are also quiet, requiring a lot of whispering, which makes it very challenging for people with hearing loss.  

Possible Assistive Listening System Locations

These systems should be available in a variety of settings, to provide accommodations for individuals with hearing loss.

  • Auditoriums and theaters: hearing loop, FM system, infrared system
  • Conference rooms, community rooms, and meeting rooms: hearing loop, FM system, infrared system
  • Small conference rooms and study rooms: portable hearing loop or portable FM system
  • Service desks, reference desks, information desks: counter hearing loop

Hearing loops are preferred by users.

Resources

The Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) is the only federal program exclusively for libraries. It is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). State libraries use the funds to support statewide initiatives and also distribute the funds through subgrants or cooperative agreements to public, school, academic, research, and special libraries. There is a requirement for a state match, which helps stimulate approximately three to four dollars for every federal dollar invested.

Zotero online library of over 60 articles, websites, and examples