Miami-Dade Public Library System

Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD)
Library Service for the Homebound/System wide TDD Line 305-474-7258

Florida Relay Service (FRS)
1-800-955-8771 (TDD)
1-800-955-8770 (Voice)
1-800-955-8013 (Voice/TDD)

All voice telephone numbers on this website may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711.

Assistive Technologies are special services and assistive devices that help make it possible for a person with a visual, hearing or speech impairment to access materials, equipment and services. Available materials include books, periodicals, closed-captioned videos for persons who are hearing impaired and descriptive videos for persons who are visually impaired. The on-line catalog may be searched by subject, title or keyword for items in all formats.

Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD) Persons who are deaf, hearing, or speech impaired may contact the Miami-Dade Public Library System via a Telecommunication Device for the Deaf/TDD. The TDD allows users to send text messages back and forth via a keyboard.

Florida Relay Service (FRS) Is a telephone relay service provided for persons with hearing or speech impairments. The FRS provides a communication link between people who use standard telephone equipment and those individuals who use a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD). A communication assistant at a FRS center answers the call and serves as a liaison between the person using the TDD and the person using standard telephone equipment. Persons without hearing impairments who are trying to reach individuals who use a TDD may also use the service. All conversations are confidential. There is no charge for local calls and long distance calls are offered at discounted rates.

Assisted Listening Devices (ALDs) Are instruments designed to amplify sounds to make it easier for persons who are hearing-impaired to enjoy a library program. The devices come in a variety of sizes and can be used with different types of hearing aids or alone with headphones. Request the device through the Branch Manager seven working days prior to the program.

Sign Language Interpretation To arrange for an interpreter, notify the Branch Manager at least seven working days prior to the event or program.

ALIS (Accessible Library Information System) Is an automated system that integrates a PC, scanner, laser printer, Braille printer, and specialized software. It can convert printed materials and online information into synthesized speech, large print, or Braille output. Allows a person who is blind to access the Internet using synthesized speech. Because of the complexity of the system, patrons must be already familiar with PC operation to use it. The ALIS is located in the Periodicals Department at the Main Library. Call t 305-375-5581 to reserve a time slot.

CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) Magnifier Uses a camera system combined with a television to enlarge or magnify the size of an image. The CCTV also enables you to alter the contrast, viewing the image as either black print on a white background or vice versa. It may be used to view books, pictures, maps and photographs to handwritten letters. Copies cannot be printed from this device. The following libraries have CCTV magnifiers:

Coral Gables
Coral Reef
Homestead
Main
Miami Beach
Miami Lakes
North Dade
South Dade
South Miami
Sunny Isles
West Dade
West Kendall

Zoom Text Is a magnification and reading software which enables computer users to enlarge words. ZoomText helps make computers accessible and friendly to users with low-vision. ZoomText software is available on one computer at each branch.