Accessibility

Anoka County Library strives to ensure that all visitors are able to access all library resources, services, and programs.  Assistive Technology is available at many library locations for people with disabilities.

ASL Interpreter Services

ASL interpreter services for library programs can be requested. Please contact our Community Engagement Manager for more information. Requests must be made at least two weeks in advance of the library event.

Email: Erin.Straszewski@co.anoka.mn.us
Phone: 763-324-1531

Assistive Technologies

  • High Contrast Keyboards
  • NVDA Screen Reader Software
  • Windows Screen Magnifier Software

Audiobooks

Audiobooks are available on CD and downloadable formats from our catalog. You can also search by title and author.

Books by Mail

The Anoka County Library mails books free of charge to county residents who are unable to visit a library in person due to temporary or permanent disability.  Visit Books by Mail for more information.

Closed-Captioned DVDs

When used with a closed-caption decoder, closed-captioned videos display dialogue and narration on the screen. Find them in our catalog. You can also search by title.

Described Videos

Described videos include a verbal description of the setting and action. Descriptive Video Service (DVS) video titles are listed in the library catalog.

Hearing Loops

Hearing loop devices are available for use during programs at the Northtown Library and the Rum River Library. Visit the service desk for more information.

Large Print Materials

Materials in larger type face are available for checkout in a variety of genres and age ranges.  Find them in our catalog. You can also search by author and title.

Sensory Kits

Each Anoka County library has a sensory kit available for use.  For more information, please inquire at the service desk.  Sensory Kits include the following items:

  • Adult noise-cancelling headphones (black)
  • Kid noise-cancelling headphones (white)
  • Fidget Spinners
  • Visual Timer
  • Trideer Seat Cushion and pump
  • Communication Cards
  • Liquid tile

Service Animals

Anoka County Library welcomes service animals in all of its facilities. Anoka County Library recognizes that service animals assist people with disabilities to deal with the effects of their disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as "dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities." However, it also states that "the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship does not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of this definition." Service animals are working animals, not pets. Under ADA regulations, staff may ask if an animal is required because of a disability; they can also ask what work or tasks the animal has been trained to perform.

Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are available for patrons to use at all of our library branches except the St. Francis Library.