Garland library director outlines accessibility upgrades, technology and outreach

Karen Archibald, director of libraries for the City of Garland, told the All Abilities Committee that Garland operates four physical libraries, two kiosks and an extensive set of digital resources, and that the library’s master plan prioritized accessibility during recent renovations. "We have 4 physical locations within the city of Garland," Archibald said as she described hours, kiosks and online services available through the library.

Archibald outlined concrete design changes and programs intended to reduce barriers for patrons with mobility, vision and learning differences. She said the library lowered adult shelving from 90 inches to about 66 inches, relocated program spaces nearer entrances to shorten circulation distances, and added children’s reading nooks accessible to wheelchair users. On technology, Archibald pointed to public computers running JAWS screen‑reader software and to features in digital platforms such as Libby that support dyslexia fonts and text-to-speech. "There's this really cool feature under settings... for dyslexia," she said, adding that many databases include accessibility options.

Archibald also described programmatic partnerships, including the Family Place Library designation for early‑childhood services and a four‑week STEAM initiative, "Making Movement Matter," run with the University of Texas at Dallas that produced assistive‑device prototypes such as improved grips. She emphasized outreach services such as a monthly Library‑at‑Home delivery and the Talking Book program for patrons who are blind or have vision impairment. Archibald invited committee members to follow up and offered handouts and contact information for residents seeking cards or training on digital tools.

Committee members pressed for details about captions and interpreters for classes and workshops; Archibald said captions are used when programs employ suitable technology and that interpreters are provided when requested but can involve costs, so the library is exploring volunteer options and partnerships with local college interpreter programs. "We do require adult volunteers to go through a background check," she said when discussing volunteer interpreters and outreach supports.

The presentation included multiple offers to collaborate with neighborhood groups and to provide tutorials and videos online for residents who cannot attend in person. Archibald closed by distributing resource handouts and asking community members to provide feedback to help the library adapt services.