British Sign Language (BSL) and hearing loops
Some of our staff are trained to a basic level of BSL at Bath, Keynsham Library, Saltford and Midsomer Norton Library. They will be happy to try and help with your enquiry. Please note this service may not be available at all times of the day.
Hearing loops are available for use at Bath, Weston and Saltford - just ask a member of staff for assistance.
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Books on Prescription Service
The Library Services via local doctors and mental health professionals offer a “Book Prescription Scheme” to people who want to use self-help. These professionals have compiled a list of recommended self-help books which have been bought by the libraries.
A prescription for a book will be issued to you by your health professional and can be exchanged at the library. Collections of the books in the scheme are based at Bath Library, Midsomer Norton Library, Radstock Library and Keynsham Library. Anyone with a book prescription may ask at any library to reserve their book free of charge, if it is not there at the time.
For more information contact the local NHS Psychological Therapies Service on 01225 831496. The team are based at Bath & North East Somerset PCT HQ, St Martin's Hospital, Clara Cross Lane, Bath BA2 5RP.
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Computer facilities for the disabled & visually impaired
Microsoft software for visually impaired people is installed on the Public Network computers at all of our libraries (except the mobiles). Concessionary rates are available for library members with disabilities. Computer training courses held in libraries are able to take students with disabilities.
Large Keyboards are available at Bath..
Black & yellow keyboards are available at Bath. If needed elsewhere, give a few days notice of your request.
Track balls are available at Bath, Keynsham Library, Midsomer Norton Paulton Library and Radstock Library. If needed elsewhere, give a few days notice of your request.
Bath has a colour CCTV magnifier which enables books and documents to be considerably enlarged, to be read on screen. The library also has a task light which makes it easier to see what is being studied.
Keynsham Library has a CCTV black & white magnifier which enables books and documents to be considerably enlarged, to be read on screen.
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Disabled access & building facilities
Disabled access dogs are welcome in all of our libraries, including the mobiles.
Bath Library: a lift is available to the 1st floor of the Podium Centre. Automatic doors are installed on both entrances to the library. A disabled toilet is also available - please ask staff for a RADAR key.
Moorland Rd Library: a small ramp at the entrance and staff can assist with opening doors.
Weston Library: a portable ramp is available - please ring the bell for staff to assist.
Keynsham Library: level access and automatic doors. A disabled toilet is also available - please ask staff for a RADAR key.
Saltford Library: ramp access and automatic doors. A disabled toilet is also available - please ask staff for a RADAR key.
Midsomer Norton Library: level access and automatic doors. A disabled toilet is also available - please ask staff for a RADAR key.
Paulton Library: level access (manual doors).
Radstock Library: level access with ramp leading up to the automatic doors.
Mobile Libraries: both vehicles have an access lift - please ask the driver for assistance.
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The Home Library Service
The Home Library Service is run by volunteers on behalf of the library and is available for most locations. The team is on hand to select a range of books and other items for you, and deliver them direct to your door. Find out more if you're interested in using the service, or becoming a volunteer yourself .
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Residential homes
We provide a delivery service to many residential homes. Contact us for more information on this. Mobile libraries also visit stops nearby some residential homes - visit the mobile library pages for more route information.
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Specialist items available to borrow
Large Print books, Audiobooks on CD or Cassette, Playaways, Music CDs, DVDs and reminiscence packs are available or reservable from all locations. Most items are also free to either visually impaired or disabled customers - see the hire charges section for more information.
New service: downloadable e-audio books free to library members, 24/7, anywhere in the world Visit Librarieswest for more details.
Please note: some libraries do not stock all these items but they can be requested for you.
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