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Access to LIbrary Services for People with Disabilities

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Redwood City Public Library is committed to meeting the needs of all library users. This includes making our collections, public programs, and services accessible to those with disabilities. 

All Redwood City Public Library locations allow service animals to accompany library customers into buildings to assist and help provide access to the full range of library services, including programs.

Collection of Library Materials

RCPL purchases materials for the collection that address the different reading and viewing styles of our customers. Please let us know if you need any assistance locating materials in a different format that is more accessible for you.

  • Audiobooks on CD
  • Audiobooks & eBooks via the Libby and on hoopla
    • Libby also has accessibility features including: color variation reduction, text variation reduction, motion reduction, vibration reduction, increase font size for eBooks, increase and decrease speed of audiobooks.
  • Large Type (Print) Books
  • Films and television on DVD, hoopla, and Kanopy
  • Magazines available on Libby

Library Services

Home Delivery

If you are unable to physically come to the library, books can be delivered to your home by library staff. For more information, please contact Fiona Potter at fpotter@redwoodcity.org.

Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL)

The Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) is a program offered by the California State Library. To be eligible for this service, a person must have a certified authority confirm that she/he is permanently or temporarily:

  • Legally blind, with vision in the better eye of 20/200 or less with corrective glasses, or
  • Have a visual field no greater than 20 degrees in diameter, or
  • Be unable to see well enough or focus long enough to read standard print, even with corrective glasses, or
  • Be unable to handle print books or turn pages because of a physical disability, or
  • Be certified as having a perceptual or reading disability of sufficient severity to prevent reading printed material in the usual manner.

If you are interested in this program, you can apply here, or the library can help you apply.

Reference and Information Services

Reference and Information Services are available to answer questions all hours the library is open. Services are available by:

Adaptive Equipment

  • All public computers have the option to turn on Live Captions, the Magnifier, Narrator (headphones required), and the on-screen keyboard.
  • Headphones for public computers are available upon request.
  • A Spectrum Optelec Magnifier available at the downtown library.
  • UserWay Menu: the library website has a number of accessibility options that can be utilized by clicking on the pink circle icon in the upper right corner.
  • Handheld magnifiers are available upon request.
  • Large type keyboards are available in the adult computer section and can be made available in all library locations.

Building Accommodations

  • All locations, restrooms, and meeting rooms are accessible.
  • Designated accessible parking spaces are available at all locations.
  • Automatic doors are at all main entrances.
  • Service animals are welcome in all public areas of the library where library customers are allowed access.
  • Low and high height catalog computers, self-checkout stations, and information/circulation desks are available at the Downtown Library and Redwood Shores Branch Library. The Schaberg Branch Library has a standing height catalog that is accessible by wheelchair.
  • Step stools are available at all library locations.
  • Height adjustable tables are available in all meeting rooms and the Makerspace

Program Accommodations

RCPL will make all reasonable modifications to policies and programs to attempt to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy its programs, services, and activities. If you have a disability and need an accommodation, please email sgregorio@redwoodcity.org  or call 650-780-7036 to make your request at least three business days ahead of time. In your message, include the following:

  • Your name
  • Your email and/or phone number
  • The name and date of the event you plan to attend
  • The accommodation you are requesting

Families with children experiencing learning challenges or ASD are invited to a Sensory Friendly event created specifically for them. Join us before the library opens for stories, songs, and crafts at the Downtown Library. Check the events calendar for specific details. This storytime typically occurs on the 2nd Saturday of the month at 9:15AM-10:00AM.