The library provides a number of free adaptive technologies, collections, and services for users with disabilities.
Adaptive Technology at King Library
"ADA" Computers with Jaws and MaGic — on the 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Floors
JAWS is a screen reader for computer programs and internet browsers. MaGic is a screen magnification program that enlarges text. Login to these computers using your Library Card and PIN number. Reserve ahead of time using Reserve a Computer.
MagniSight Explorer (Print Enlarger) — at 3rd Floor Service Desk
This color video magnification system has a camera unit, closed circuit TV monitor, and movable tray. Printed material may be magnified from 3 to 50 times. For those who have problems reading black-on-white print, the enlarger comes with the capability of changing the background colors.
Collections in Alternative Formats
Audiobooks and eAudiobooks
The library has fiction and nonfiction audiobooks on CD and downloadable or streaming eAudiobooks online. A number of our eBook/eAudiobook vendors are compatible with screen-readers and other accessibility software. The following are confirmed to be accessible:
- The Original OverDrive app
- The RBdigital app
- The Kindle App (can be used with Kindle books at OverDrive)
Do you use Accessibility software? We would love to have your feedback on the usability of our eResources websites and apps. Contact us at SJPL eBook Support.
Books Aloud
You can also get recorded books from Books Aloud, a nonprofit that provides free unabridged books on cassette tapes to people with visual, physical or learning disabilities.
Large Print Books
The library offers selected fiction and nonfiction large print books.
Closed Captioned Videos
The Library has DVDs and VHS videos with closed captioning of dialogue and sound.
Sound Descriptive Videos
The Library also has DVDs with narrative tracks that describe what is happening throughout the recording, including when there is no dialogue.
Assistance Using the Library
Retrieving Library Items for You
If you have a disability, library staff will retrieve books, media and other items from the library collection for you on request. Request this service at any desk in the King Library and San José Public Library branches. Library staff will get a reasonable number of items for you, based on staff availability and workload.
Printing and Photocopying for You
Library staff will print or photocopy a reasonable number of items for you. Request this service at any desk in the King Library and San José Public Library branches. Library staff may ask you to leave selections for later copying when there is no time for extended individual help.
ADA Accommodations at Events
If you have a disability and would like to attend a library event, call the library’s General Collections desk to request accommodation or schedule an appointment with an ADA liaison at least 72 hours in advance of the event: 1-408-808-2397
Proxy Borrowing
Proxy borrowing lets a person of your choice borrow or renew library items on your behalf. This option is available on request at the King Library Circulation Desk or call 1-408-808-2000.
Extending Your Loan Period
You may request that the library extend the loan period for your borrowed items if you are unable to return them on time due to special circumstances. Granting this extension to you is at the discretion of library staff and may depend on demand for your items by other library users.
Contacts
For Individual Assistance with Library Materials
- General Reference: 1-408-808-2397
- You may contact us by using California Relay Service: 711 or 1-800-735-2929
For Questions About Your Account
- Access Services: 1-408-808-2000 or Email circ.sjpl@sjlibrary.org
- Telephone Renewal System: 1-408-808-2665
Information & Research Questions
- General Reference: 1-408-808-2397 or fill out our Contact Form
Other Local Services
Braille and Talking Book Library
Borrowers with visual or other disabilities may be eligible to borrow recorded and Braille books and devices from the Braille and Talking Book Library, a branch of the California State Library. You may find out more by calling (toll-free) 1-800-952-5666.