CNIB applauds PEI’s support of equitable library services for book lovers with vision loss and other print disabilities

(CHARLOTTETOWN – April 15, 2010) CNIB applauds the Government of PEI’s $29,000 contribution towards equitable library services.

“The PEI government’s support means Islanders with vision loss as well as other print disabilities will be able to access the CNIB Library through the PEI Public Library Service,” said Duncan Williams, CNIB’s Director of Government Relations for Atlantic Canada.

With a collection of more than 80,000 titles, the CNIB Library is Canada’s largest producer of books, magazines and newspapers in formats such as braille and accessible audio.

“Public libraries have been doing their best to meet the needs of book lovers who have special needs – and now they have access to more resources to better serve patrons,” said Mr. Williams.

PEI joins New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta and Northwest Territories in partnering with CNIB in support of accessible library services.

“For many senior citizens, books are their lifeline,” said Mr. Williams. “The PEI government’s support means our parents and grandparents can continue to enjoy books, newspapers and magazines for many more years to come.”

Islanders who are looking for a job or wanting to stay employed will have access to reference material, newspapers and magazines in alternate formats through the PEI Public Library Service.

“Literacy is at the heart of how we connect with the world around us,” said Mr. Williams. “Thank you to the Government of PEI for recognizing our education, employment and participation in culture and civic life depend on our ability to read.”

Media contact:
Catherine Kieran
Regional Manager, Communications
CNIB (Atlantic)
Office: 902-453-480, ext. 250
Mobile: 902-497-6970
Toll-free: 1-800-563-2642
Email: catherine.kieran@cnib.ca