Services for Older People

Many of our older readers use the standard book and video service. However, getting older can bring with it certain physical issues which our service takes into account.

Difficulty with Reading?

All libraries have:

• large print books
• spoken word CDs
• magnifiers

A selection of the libraries have:

• text magnifying screens at the Central, Finsbury, Archway and John Barnes libraries
• OCR (Optical Character Reader) at Central Library, a tool that converts text into speech
• computer catalogues with magnified screens at the Central and Archway libraries
• internet with magnified screen at Central Library

Difficulty with Hearing?

All libraries have:

• international feature films with English subtitles
• close-captioned videos
• DVDs with subtitles in English and some with subtitles in other languages

Some of the libraries have:

• subtitled English feature films
• videos about lip-reading
  

If you are unable to get to a library, our Home Library Service will bring the library service to you. Click the link on the right, under Related Information, for more details.

If You Need Advice or Information:

All libraries have a community information resource, with advice and information on everyday issues, often in the form of leaflets which can be taken away. Information for older people includes health, benefits, pensions, housing options, lunch and social clubs, activities for older people and more. We can also refer you to local groups, facilities and services.

Please click on the link below to see or download the latest edition of Signpost - a brief guide to Services for Older People.

If you have any comments or suggestions to make on the service we provide, please contact your local library, or:

Kassa Tsegaye
Social Inclusion Manager
Based at Central Library
Tel: 020 7527 6980
Fax: 020 7527 6985
Email: kassa.tsegaye@islington.gov.uk