Libraries for visually and hearing-impaired people open doors in Almaty
New specialized libraries for visually impaired and hard-of-hearing individuals have been opened in Almaty. They are equipped with scanners capable of reading text, playing it back, and converting it into audio format, Kazinform News Agency reports.
High-quality sound headphones are provided in the libraries. Additionally, braille displays, printers, and devices to enlarge and change the contrast of text are available.
The libraries boast computers with specialized software installed to ensure seamless access to information.
The facilities can be found at the following locations:
● Zhambyl City Youth Library;
● Alatau Creative Hub;
● Central City Library named after A. P. Chekhov;
● Library of Kazakhstani writers;
● Branches of libraries No. 4, No. 14, and No. 45.
The initiative is implemented in order to ensure equal access to cultural facilities and to create comfortable and barrier-free environment for all.
Visually impaired staff, assisting readers in the use of equipment, locating required materials, and providing training, are employed by the libraries.
After internships in the library field in Seoul, Germany and Swtizerland, specialists have already started applying the best practices in this area.
A total of 400 individuals are employed in the Almaty libraries. Eighteen young specialists from municipal libraries have been granted housing under the Almaty Zhastary program.
The Akim of Almaty initiated an increase in employee salaries, with a 30% increase in 2023 and a 25% increase in 2024. An additional 29% increase is planned this year.
As reported earlier, five libraries were closed in the Kostanay region due to the population shift from rural to urban areas.
