Accessibility at OPL

1. Our mission

The mission of Oshawa Public Libraries is to enrich the lives and potential of the people of Oshawa by connecting them to the world of information and each other.

2. Our commitment

In fulfilling our mission, Oshawa Public Libraries strives at all times to provide its resources and services in a way that respects the dignity and independence of people with disabilities. We are committed to giving people with disabilities the same opportunity to access our resources and services, allowing them to benefit from the same services, in the same place and in a similar way as other customers.

3. Specialized services and resources

We are committed to offering accessible services and resources, including:

Collections:

• • CELA audiobooks
  • Large Print books, opens a new window
  • Talking books, opens a new window
  • eBooks, opens a new window
  • eMagazines
    • cloudLibrary NewsStand
    • Flipster
  • eAudiobooks, opens a new window
  • Deposit Collections

Services:

• • Extended book loans for customers with special needs
  • Online library services, such as renewals and requests
  • Visiting Library services
  • CELA (Centre for Equitable Library Access)

Technologies:

• • Adaptive computer stations with specialized software (available at the McLaughlin Branch):
    • Kurzweil 1000
    • WindowEyes
    • JAWS
    • ZoomText Magnifier/Screen Reader
  • Wireless Internet access
  • Victor Readers
  • Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) that provides magnification of hard copy material (available at the McLaughlin Branch)

4. Policies

We are committed to developing customer service policies that respect and promote the dignity and independence of people with disabilities. 

Integrated Accessibility Standards Policy

5. Accessibility Plan

Oshawa Public Libraries’ Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (PDF), opens a new window outlines a phased-in strategy to prevent and remove barriers and addresses the current and future requirements of the AODA. The plan is reviewed and updated at least once every five years. 

View the City of Oshawa's Multi-Year Accessibility Plan on their Accessibility web page. 

6. 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report 

Oshawa Public Libraries' 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report (PDF) is available for viewing.