Anyone who has vision difficulties or who is "print-disabled" is invited to use the new Smartview 360 Magnifier at the 100 Mile House Branch Library.
Purchased this past February with funding specifically for this device from an anonymous donor, the Smartview magnifies printed material onto a computer screen.
“You can magnify print, adjust the size of what you’re viewing and select different colour backgrounds,” explains 100 Mile and District Chapter White Cane Club president Marilyn Vinson.
“The machine is very simple to use – magnification is just with a dial.”
Club vice-president Kathy Sanness agrees.
“You can magnify magazine articles, medical instructions on prescriptions, backs of audio books, book covers, receipts – anything you need to read.”
While the magnifier officially belongs to the local White Cane Club, it is located in the library underneath the clock to the right of meeting room door. No appointment is necessary to use the Smartview and it’s always available during regular library hours.
“We want people to know it’s here and available for people to come in and use,” says Vinson.
“You don’t have to be legally blind or a member of the White Cane Club. If you have difficulties reading, it’s here for you.”
For more information on the magnifier or the White Cane Club, contact Vinson at 250-396-4070 or Sanness at 250-395-4547.