Accessibility is a core value of public libraries. In 2023, the Salt Spring Island Public Library received Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification, a LEED-style rating system that measures the accessibility of buildings and sites, promoting increased access through the adoption of Universal Design principles.
That being said, there is work to be done to improve accessibility at the Salt Spring Island Public Library, both digitally and as a public space. If you have specific requirements or need assistance to access our spaces, please reach out to us directly via phone at 250-537-4666, or email info@saltspringlibrary.com
Accessible features include:
- Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification
- Two designated, accessible parking spaces in the front of the Library
- Automatic door openers to the main entrance
- Elevator access to Archives and Historical Association upstairs
- Low-level accessibility ramp in front of Library to the right of entrance
- A gender-neutral accessible family washroom
- Sheltered entryway
- Power operated front door
- Highly visible and easy to locate information desk
- Low service counters at the information desk
- Wide aisles and lots of mobility space for navigating the library
- Variety of seating options (seats with and without armrests, different heights and widths, fixed and movable)
- Accessible keyboard with large print and lettering on request
Accessible Resources
What is a print disability?
A print disability can be a:
- Learning disability: An impairment relating to comprehension
- Physical disability: The inability to hold or manipulate a book
- Visual disability: Severe or total impairment of sight or the inability to focus or move one’s eyes
National Network for Equitable Library Service (NNELS)
If you have a print disability, you qualify to register as a print-disabled library member which allows you to access resources from NNELS.
- NNELS is a repository of content owned and sustained by Canadian public libraries, working with international partners, libraries, readers, and publishers (particularly Canadian ones) to make copies of books in accessible formats available to readers in Canada who have print disabilities.
- People who have a vision impairment, who are unable to hold a book, and/or who have certain learning disabilities qualify for the NNELS service through public libraries.
- For more information about the service and how to get books, see NNELS: Accessible Books or visit the NNELS website.
- To sign up for NNELS, please contact the Salt Spring Island Public Library by phone: 250-537-4666 or email: info@saltspringlibrary.com to register as a print-disabled member, and then visit the NNELS sign-up page.
Accessible Reading BC
- Accessible Reading BC is a new collection of accessible eBooks from BC publishers available to all BC residents.
- Unlimited access with no wait times.
- Sign in with your SSIPL barcode and password.
- After downloading your eBook, you are able to load it into your favourite reading application.
- Need help getting started? Find tutorials at Accessible Reading BC.
Interlibrary Loan Audiobooks
- You can request audiobooks and large print books from other libraries.
Other Accessible Resources
- Our library has over 1478 audiobooks on disc, and over 865 large print books.
- Website Preferences Tool – visitors to the Library website can change the look of the page presentation according to their reading preferences and needs. These changes can help someone with vision challenges to improve their reading experience.
- Free public domain audiobooks at LibriVox
Visiting Library Service
The Visiting Library Service provides free home delivery of library materials and resources for home-bound members of the community. Through this program, volunteer library ambassadors provide personal phone calls and connections to patrons, reserve and deliver library materials and resources.
Subject Guides
- Literacy & Struggling Readers – a subject guide that contains links to local and government resources.
- Resources for People with Disabilities – a subject guide that contains links to local and government resources.
Share your Feedback on Accessibility
The Salt Spring Island Public Library aims to be an inclusive place for all to learn, connect and explore.
It’s important to us that we know and understand the barriers within our facility so we can better serve our residents and visitors.
Learn more about the Salt Spring Island Public Library Accessibility Plan.
You can provide feedback on the plan or any barriers you have experienced at the Salt Spring Island Public Library in the following ways:
- Phone: 250-537-4666
- Email: info@saltspringlibrary.com
- In person: with frontline staff at the Salt Spring Island Public Library
- Mail: Accessibility Coordinator, Salt Spring Island Public Library, 129 McPhillips Ave, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2T6
How we use your feedback
Your valued feedback will be used to:
- repair deficiencies or hazards at the Salt Spring Island Public Library
- better understand accessibility trends and patterns
- help identify future accessibility projects
Please note, the only time your feedback will be connected to you is when you request a personal response to your feedback.