DAPHNE, Ala.— The Daphne Public Library has been awarded a grant of $18,220  plus a required local match of $4,850 to purchase equipment and materials for use by those with special needs.

The grant comes from the Alabama Public Library Service; funds will be used to enlarge the fiction and nonfiction large print and audio collections for adults and children, according to a spokesperson. Various equipment will be purchased including illuminated tabletop magnifiers, large-letter keyboards, Zoom Text software, JAWS Screen Reader software, wall-mounted CD players and headphones for use inside the library, and subscriptions to several large print magazines. 

The library also plans to begin providing informational materials such as program schedules, bookmarks and flyers in large print. Further plans include the purchase of multi-space listening stations for preschoolers and elementary students, as well as some large-print materials for children who are sight-impaired.

The library also plans to purchase adjustable handicapped-access study tables for the adult and children’s areas, as well as large trackballs for computer use.

The library has received delivery and installation of automated front doors supported by a grant from the Alabama Public Schools and College Education Incentive Fund. The automated doors should provide help for those with walkers, wheelchairs, baby strollers or those with an armload or materials or donations, according to a spokesperson.

The grant also supported the installation of decorative safety gates on the library plaza for use during special events.

 The library continues to apply for grants whenever possible, to better serve the citizens of Daphne.