The Mullica Hill library will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 4, for the opening of its Library Equal Access Program (LEAP).
The event will be in conjunction with the New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center (NJTBBC) and the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired,
“LEAP currently is a series of free technology classes sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired,” said Gloucester County Library System Director Carolyn Oldt. “Classes are hosted at several public libraries throughout the state.
“These classes teach visually impaired individuals, aged 55 and older, how to use accessible features available on iPhones and iPads,” she added. “Accessible features covered in LEAP classes include Siri, VoiceOver and magnification.”
LEAP was first launched in November 2015, according to NJTBBC Outreach Librarian Stephen Felle, with classes at three libraries. That number has grown to 11, including the Mullica Hill branch and the Cherry Hill library. More than 100 participants have since signed up for classes.
The free ribbon-cutting ceremony will celebrate LEAP’s arrival in Gloucester County.
“Attendees will have a chance to experience how the assisted technology devices improve the lives of those with visual impairments,” Oldt explained.
Also on hand will be representatives from the New Jersey State Library, the state Department of Human Services and the Gloucester County Commission, among others.
Register for classes with the LEAP program by contacting Felle at (800) 792-8322, ext. 814, or by email at sfelle@njstatelib.org.
Beginner iPad classes will continue every Tuesday until April 18. Intermediate classes every Tuesday will begin May 9 and continue through May 30. Class times are 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
