The Low Vision Reading Room is an innovative approach to creating welcoming and accessible libraries. Thanks to a donation from the Semmes Family Foundation, the space was created in an empty reading nook. In addition to the physical enhancement of the space, the donation allowed the Library to expand the braille collection by over 100 titles, and to purchase assistive equipment like braille readers and magnifying desktops. The room is also home to a temporary display of unique works of art from The Color of Blind, an interactive multi-sensory art show designed for the blind and low vision community.

With the installment of the Low Vision Reading Room, we are leading the charge in the way in which we provide literacy support to our community. This enhancement to the Central Library is able to serve as a center for the blind, visually impaired and children and families with special needs who seek to engage with literature and learning. In addition to the services and resources available in the Low Vision Reading Room, the San Antonio Public Library offers an assortment of assistive equipment for all ages, for use in the Library or for check out.

Awareness and use of low vision materials has increased dramatically since the space opened. Visitors delight in getting to experience the braille titles and touching the art. In addition to interacting with the material at the Library, the braille and large print collection is available for checkout, and can be placed on hold and sent to a patron’s closest branch location for pick up. The San Antonio Public Library is proud to be the home of this unique space that allows the Library to be more adaptive in its response to the needs of our low vision community.