LCBA Feature: Newark Public Library

Published on March 17, 2025

Enhancing Accessibility and Training Opportunities

NJ State Library Talking Book & Braille Center (TBBC) Director, Adam Szczepaniak, and TBBC staff member, Scott Schornstaedt, recently visited the Newark Public Library to review the newly available resources which were funded by the State Library, through the NJ Library Construction Bond Act. The library has made significant strides in improving accessibility and providing vital services for the community.

Highlights of the Visit

• Computer Training Room: One of the key spaces funded by the LCBA is a new computer training room, which is separate from the main computer lab. This room allows for focused training sessions and is an essential resource for programs like the BARD training. BARD, the Braille and Audio Reading Download service, offers downloadable books and magazines for patrons who are unable to read standard print due to a visual, print, or physical disability. Members of TBBC can choose from tens of thousands of accessible audiobooks, dozens of audio magazines, and over 11,000 Braille files.
• Computer Lab: The computer lab, equipped with approximately 48 workstations, was bustling by mid-afternoon. It’s clear that there is a high demand for these resources, and the space provides critical access to technology for library patrons.
• Hispanic Reading Room: This room provides a dedicated space for the Hispanic community. It is designed to offer resources in Spanish, further enriching the library’s diverse offerings.
• Accessibility Room: Next to the computer lab, the accessibility room provides a quiet, supportive environment for patrons with disabilities. This room, accessible via a door at the end of the lab, is designed to provide users with specialized equipment and services. TBBC’s Scott Schornstaedt recently updated the four computers in this room with accessible software and provided power cords for the CCTV system to enhance its functionality.

Looking Ahead

In addition to the improvements made during this visit, the Newark Public Library and Talking Book and Braille Center will soon be hosting LEAP training sessions with iPads. These sessions are an excellent opportunity for individuals to familiarize themselves with new technology designed to enhance independence and accessibility. LEAP offers free technology courses for individuals aged 55 and above, who have some level of vision loss, to teach them how to use accessibility features available on Apple iPad and iPhone devices. iPads are available to use in class, so owning a device is not required.

We are proud to see how these funded upgrades are helping the Newark Public Library expand its services and create an inclusive environment for all its patrons.

Check out this article further detailing Newark Public Library’s accessibility and training centers, recently featured in NJ.com.