Assistive Services

The Pickering Public Library is committed to providing our community with accessible programs, services, and resources.

Accessibility Customer Service Standards

Available Accessible Services:

Books+ Express

Books+ Express is a program available to homebound Pickering residents who are unable to visit the library due to temporary or long-term disability, and who hold a valid library card. Books and other library materials are delivered by volunteers based on client preferences.

To apply, please register by clicking here or calling 905-831-6265.

Please note that we are unable to provide this service to long-term care or retirement homes at this time.

Accessible Formats
Public documents generated by the Library are available in alternate format upon request.

Please contact:

Joel Sutherland Manager of Client Experience
Email Joel Sutherland
905-831-6265 ext. 6233

Accessible self-checkout stations are available at the Central Library.

Centre for Equitable Library Access
Any Pickering Public Library client who has a learning, visual or physical disability that prevents them from reading conventional print, may access CELA collections. CELA is partnered with the CNIB to provide access to books, magazines, newspapers and described videos. Formats include digital narrated audio, digital text-to-speech, e-braille and printed braille. Delivery options include direct download to computer, handheld devices and DAISY player or CD and Braille mailed to your home or the Pickering Public Library on your behalf.
Clients can now self-register using the convenient CELA Signup Form, opens a new window.
If you would like more information on this service, please email homeservice@pickeringlibrary.ca.

Large Print and Other Formats
Pickering Public Library has a variety of formats available to our clients in alternative formats. Large Print, large print paperbacks, books on cd, eAudiobooks and eBooks are available.

Screen Reader Software
All public computers have NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access).  This “screen reader” enables people who are blind or vision impaired to independently use the Windows Operating system. It reads the text on the screen in a computerised voice.

Language Resources
Our language translation line gives you access to an on-demand interpreter for over 100 languages, during Library hours. Call Library staff for more information at 905-831-6265 Toll Free: 1-888-831-6266.

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter
To request an ASL Interpreter for a Library event or Board meeting, please fill out the following ASL Event Interpreter request form. Please submit your request early as we need two (2) to three (3) weeks to accommodate your request. Once the booking has been confirmed, cancellations must be made a minimum of three (3) days before the event or meeting.

Loan Periods
People with disabilities may request extended loan periods. Please talk to staff at your local branch for more information.

Service Disruptions and Event Cancellations
Information about Service Disruptions and Event Cancellations can be obtained by calling 905-831-6265 extension 6703.

Comments and Feedback
Please use the Contact Us form at the bottom of this page.

Clients can also contact:

Joel Sutherland Manager of Client Experience
Email Joel Sutherland
905-831-6265 ext. 6233

Individuals may also provide feedback in person to library staff or in writing using paper comment forms. All feedback is monitored, tracked, and responded to by public service staff, working with the relevant department. If a response is not immediately available, staff will confirm that the feedback has been received and indicate a timeline for response.