Prince Edward Island has responded to a funding challenge which threatens the supply of reading resources to the blind and partially sighted. Minister of Tourism and Culture Robert Vessey says that the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) has been the main creator and provider of specialized resources for the print-challenged and is no longer able to continue that work without financial assistance.
“For years, the CNIB has worked with libraries and directly with the public to provide braille, audio books and other resources to its clients,” said Minister Vessey. Today, more than ever before, there is a need to access print materials. I am pleased to announce that our government has agreed to CNIB’s request for funds in the amount of $29,000 for 2010-2011, while discussions move forward for a more permanent resolution.”
Some 13,000 Islanders suffer from disability in accessing print materials. This number includes the blind and partially-sighted, many of whom have had life-long challenges. It also includes an increasing number of Islanders who, through diseases such as diabetes and macular degeneration, are suddenly faced with difficulties in seeing. The increasing dependence on text messages, e-mail, computer-based video and other electronic print resources makes it more difficult for those with print-disability to play an active contributing role in PEI society.
The PEI Public Library Service plays a key role in serving the print-disabled population. With its mandate to serve all Islanders, the library has many specialized resources including some 4,000 audio books, 11,000 large-print books and 3,000 on-line audio books which can be downloaded to computers or portable devices.
“I am proud of what we have been able to do in this area, but we must also recognize this is a national issue,” said Minister Vessey. “ Our government has asked the Minister of Canadian Heritage, who has responsibility for the Library and Archives Canada, to take a leadership role in bringing resources to much-needed services. We accept that the CNIB should not have to do this work alone – we have seen how our library services can be a part of a productive partnership to help meet the needs – and we have acted, and the Government of Canada now needs to do the same.”
Each year, more and more of our public libraries have specialized assistive technology to help those with disabilities to access web-based and computer resources. In addition, there is a specialized Community Care collection for use in facilities where so many residents suffer from visual challenges. The library also works directly with the CNIB to deliver other services in the province.