As many as 10% of Canadians have a print disability which limits their ability to read traditional books, and that number is expected to increase as the population ages.
Less than 5% of all materials published in Canada are available in formats accessible to people with print disabilities. Saskatchewan Public Libraries, including Wapiti Regional Library, are committed to ensuring equitable access to library resources for all Saskatchewan residents.
Through the Centre for Equitable Library Access (CELA) and the National Network for Equitable Library Service (NNELS), we are able to offer a broad choice of formats including audio, braille, and e-text. If you have questions about these services, please contact your local Branch Librarian.
What is a print disability?
- impairment related to reading comprehension
- inability to hold or manipulate print materials due to arthritis or hand or wrist injuries
- total or partial impairment of sight which can result from many different causes
Centre for Equitable Library Access (CELA)
CELA is a national non-profit organization that offers materials in the following formats:
- DAISY CDs: for DAISY players or MP3 compatible CD players
- DAISY digital: stream or download through the CELA website
- Braille: both contracted and uncontracted form
- Printbraille: picture books with added braille
- E-braille: download and use with electronic braille displays
- E-text: newspapers, magazines, and books downloaded from the CELA website
- Bookshare: free membership to the Bookshare online digital library (requires an additional registration after registering for CELA)
Patrons can self-register on the CELA website at www.celalibrary.ca or may register by completing the below CELA Patron Registration Form then submitting it to their local Branch Librarian. No medical forms are required. Patrons may assign a designate to register on their behalf. Home delivery is available for DAISY CDs, braille, and described movies.
CELA Patron Registration Form (print, complete, then give to your local Branch Librarian)
National Network for Equitable Library Services (NNELS)
NNELS provides access to a growing collection of downloadable audio books and other accessible formats restricted to the print disabled. To register for NNELS, submit the below NNELS self-declaration form or NNELS Competent-authority form to your local Branch Librarian. After registering, you may access the NNELS catalog at www.nnels.ca.