The Assistive Technology Petting Zoo will be presented at Charles D. Switzer Library in downtown Marietta on Saturday, April 30 from 11 am to 3 pm. The program will feature demonstrations of special devices and services available from the Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled.

Cobb County Public Library is hosting the special Assistive Tech event to support GLS outreach efforts to increase the number of eligible Cobb County adults and children using GLS services. Devices available from GLS include talking book and magazine players, audio and braille books and magazines, audio-described movies, large print books and more.

“GLS is so important because it removes barriers to accessing print materials and provides alternate formats that address the specific needs of the individual,” said Renaté Elliott, disability and accessibility services supervisor for CCPL. “The services that GLS provides allows patrons to enjoy reading for leisure, access textbooks for lifelong learning and to continue enjoying reading at any stage of life.”

Participants at the Assistive Tech event will be able to apply for GLS services, have questions answered and learn about all of the programs and services offered by GLS, Elliott said. Eligible conditions for GLS services include blindness, visual impairments, physical impairments that prevent handling of books and reading disabilities, GLS officials said.

Registration for the free Assistive Tech Petting Zoo event is required. Register at cobbcat.org or call 770-528-2376

Each registered participant will be entered into a drawing to receive a gift basket of assistive tech of up to $250. There is one basket for adults and one basket for children.

GLS is a program of Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS), a unit of the University System of Georgia. GLS programs are made possible by GPLS and a federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

For information on Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, visit gls.georgialibraries.org or call 800-248-6701.

Charles D. Switzer Library is located at 266 Roswell Street, Marietta 30060. 770-528-2320

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