Services for Patrons with Disabilities
Flower Library strives to celebrate the individual differences within our community. We do so by providing a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional service from a committed staff, and by being responsive to community needs. The opportunities that we provide to our community are extended to patrons with disabilities so that they can experience a sense of belonging and find empowerment in learning and connection.
Accessibility Widget
While navigating FlowerLibrary.org, users have the option to apply accessibility features. Select the accessibility widget icon on the right side of the screen and choose which features to activate. The widget includes:
- increase text
- decrease text
- grayscale
- high contrast
- negative contrast
- light background
- links underlined
- readable font
Open Doors Certified
- there is a policy and expectation that our staff is tolerant and accepting of those with differing support needs
- this location is making a public statement that they welcome those of all abilities
- increased movement and noise is allowed
- sensory kits are available
THE COLLECTION
We purchase materials for the library’s collection that fit the many different reading styles of our community. Please let us know if you need any help finding the right materials for you!
Audiobooks
We have a section of books on CD for both children and adults. Materials written for our youngest reading levels can be found in the Children’s Room and are mostly fictional stories. Those written on an adult level can be found in the basement and are both fiction and nonfiction.
Large Print Books
All of our library’s large print books are written at an adult level and can be found on the main floor. Visit the North Reading Room in the historic part of our building for this collection of fiction and nonfiction materials.
E-books and E-audiobooks
If you enjoy reading or listening to books on a tablet or another device, you can download them for free using your North Country Library System card using the Libby app. The Libby app provides additional accessibility features that may be useful for all users, including adjustable text size.
Books by Mail
The North Country Library System provides books by mail, at no cost, to eligible patrons residing in Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, and St. Lawrence counties. Materials will be sent by mail, free of charge, to eligible patrons who need specialized materials, or who are unable to visit their local public library. Institutions and agencies that provide services to individuals in eligible categories also qualify for Home Delivery Service. For more information, please contact Kathy Van Ness at 315-782-5540.
New York Talking Books and Braille Library
The New York State Talking Book and Braille Library (TBBL) is a free library service for eligible residents of upstate New York who are unable to use standard print materials due to visual, physical, or reading disability. The TBBL collection includes print Braille books, and fiction and nonfiction audio and braille books, with over 70 magazine subscriptions as well. Visit the TBBL website to apply and search the catalog.
National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), Library of Congress, is a free braille and talking book library service for people with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical, perceptual, or reading disability that prevents them from reading or holding the printed page. Through a national network of cooperating libraries, NLS offers books and magazines the way you want them: in braille or audio formats, instantly downloadable or mailed to your door for free. NLS offers a wide variety of titles, including bestsellers, biographies, fictional works, how-to books, magazines, and music scores and instructional materials. Visit the NLS website to apply and search the catalog.
ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT
Equipment for low vision and sensory needs are located throughout the building. Additionally, virtual reference options are available for those in need. Check with a staff member if you need any assistance.
Reading Magnifier
Visit the North Reading Room in the historic section of our building for a reading magnifier. This machine will enlarge any text placed under the camera. Instructions are provided, but please speak to a staff member for help beyond what is provided on the table.
Virtual Reference
For those who find it helpful to submit questions and converse with library staff virtually, there are multiple options to do so:
- Submitting a reference question via our Research form
- Chatting with us using our Facebook Messenger app
Please note that we’ll do our best to get back to you in a timely manner!
BUILDING ACCOMMODATIONS
The entrance to the library is on street level; automatic doors are located at the entrance near City Hall. While the library does have three floors, there is an elevator for patron use.
Parking
Parking is free and is first come, first served. Options include a small lot located directly behind the library and along Washington Street; both include handicapped spots.
Restrooms
We have restrooms on both the first and second floors of the library. However, only the first floor restrooms are accessible this time. The second floor restrooms are much smaller and less frequented.
Service Animals in the Library
From library policy: “For the health and safety of our patrons, Roswell P. Flower Memorial Library adheres to ADA regulations. Service animals are allowed in the library building. Any animal other than a service animal for sanctioned library activities may be admitted with prior approval from the Administration.”
EVENT ACCOMMODATIONS
We welcome all members of our community at library events! Staff are happy to work with you to make visiting the library the best experience possible. Please speak with us if you need assistance.
LOCAL CONNECTIONS
We recognize that we’re unable to meet the needs of every individual who walks into our building and are happy to help folks connect with those organizations who can best serve them. Other helpful agencies in our community include:
The Upstate Caring Partners TRAID RTC serves Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Montgomery, and Oneida counties with services to individuals related to assistive technology devices. Visit their website for more information.