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We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
From time to time, the Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) is asked to distribute information on behalf of third parties. WRFN provides general information to self-advocates and families of children with special needs. The information provided on this website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider. WRFN is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. You are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource.
Borrow a Chromebook
Kitchener Public Library partnered with the City of Kitchener to expand WIFI access in public spaces. With funding from the Government of Canada's Healthy Communities Initiative, we are pleased to introduce our "Borrow a Chromebook" collection. Community members can now borrow Chromebooks from our collection to take home for a one-week loan period. The devices are available at all five library locations.
Daisy Reader with Download Content
Daisy readers are intended for customers who are blind, have low vision, or have another form of print disability. KPL recently purchased 15 new Daisy reader machines with enhanced navigation functions for easy use. We added 8 Victor Stratus machines to play Daisy audio discs and digital direct-to-player content through the Centre for Equitable Library Access (CELA) digital library. We also have 5 Victor Stream readers, a smaller pocket-sized device that only plays digital direct-to-player content.
The library has been lending Daisy Readers and Daisy discs for a long time, but this is our first time lending Daisy devices with pre-loaded digital direct-to-player content. Staff can pre-load a mix of about 50 titles of different genres and interests on the Stratus and Stream readers, and the content rotates every few months. Customers can also complete a reading profile, and library staff will load additional digital content that suits their reading interests and preferences on a device for them.
New Yoto Mini Collection
The Yoto Mini is an excellent audio format for young kids. The small audio player plays audiobooks encoded on colourful plastic-coated cards. The Yoto players and accessories are nicely designed, attractive, and easy to use and manipulate. They are for children from birth to 12 years old. They are accessibility friendly for users with print, learning or developmental disabilities. Our current collection includes 13 Yoto players, each with a set of audio cards on a different theme.
Yoto Mini promotes reading readiness using themes such as classics, Disney, alphabet and phonics, French and health and wellness, music, baking, and non-fiction stories. New themes in 2024 will include meditation, getting active, travel, some more classic fiction, more French, Sesame Street, and Adventure stories.
Visiting Library Service
Visiting Library is a free service that provides monthly delivery of library material to Kitchener residents who cannot visit the library in person.
Visiting Library customers can select their library material by placing holds through our catalogue or have a Visiting Library Selector (volunteer) gather library material based on their DiscoveRead form (reading profile).
