Promoting Smooth Library Use for People with Disabilities through Assistive Reading Device Rentals and Book Delivery Services
Visiting Movie Screening Program and Developmental Disability Youth Book Play Program Receive High Praise
Park Gang-su, Mayor of Mapo-gu, "Libraries Are Cultural Spaces for Everyone Regardless of Disability"
Mapo-gu (Mayor Park Gang-su) is gaining popularity by preparing various library programs and policies to bridge the information gap for people with disabilities and promote cultural enjoyment.
Earlier this year, Mapo-gu established the "Support Operation Plan for Comfortable Reading Life for People with Disabilities" and built library services that accompany and coexist with people with disabilities.
To facilitate smooth book usage for people with disabilities, Mapo-gu is equipped year-round with reading assistance devices such as braille information terminals, magnifiers, braille printers, public hearing aids, and one-handed keyboards available for use within libraries.
Additionally, since December last year, alternative materials provided by the National Library for the Disabled have been made searchable through the Mapo-gu public library website, enhancing information accessibility for people with disabilities.
Along with this, the "Chaeknarae Service," which delivers books to the homes of people with disabilities who find it difficult to visit libraries, is also being operated.
Reading culture programs for people with disabilities are also receiving favorable reviews. The "Visiting Barrier-Free Film Screening Program," conducted by visiting local disability organizations, received a satisfaction rate of over 90% in a participant survey conducted last May.
To promote cultural enjoyment for local people with disabilities, Mapo-gu plans to continue the "Visiting Barrier-Free Film Screening Program" until November at the Mapo Developmental Disabilities Lifelong Education Center, Mapo Disabled Welfare Center, and Mapo-gu Disabled Vocational Rehabilitation Center.
The "Reading Together Book Play" program, jointly conducted by Mapo Central Library and Mapo Disabled Welfare Center, is designed to aid the physical and mental development of adolescents with developmental disabilities and has received great support from parents of children with developmental disabilities.
Adolescents with developmental disabilities participating in "Reading Together Book Play" engage in role-playing, crafting, and games using picture books and various materials, fostering interest in books and developing expressive abilities.
Furthermore, Mapo-gu plans to further enhance expertise by enabling staff in charge of managing reading assistance devices and disability reading programs to complete disability service staff training conducted by the National Library of Korea and the National Library for the Disabled.
Park Gang-su, Mayor of Mapo-gu, stated, "Libraries should be cultural spaces that anyone can enjoy regardless of disability," and added, "Mapo-gu will continue to prepare various library policies so that all residents can enjoy reading and culture."
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