These innovative zones aim to enhance our library facilities, so they are more accessible to all members of the community - regardless of age, abilities, or digital literacy.
The zones are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including screen readers, magnification software, and speech recognition tools. They have been carefully designed to include features such as accessible seating and adjustable desks, as well as volunteer digital champions who can offer support to those who need help getting online.
The Inclusive Digital Zones have been made possible in partnership and consultation with the LBBD Sensory Team, The Royal National Institute of Blind People and the Good Things Foundation.
The opening times can be found on the table below, along with a range of free sessions you are welcome to come along to!
Scan the code or click on the link to listen to the introduction of our inclusive options
Come and see this service in the zones at
Barking Learning Centre
2 Town Square, Barking, IG11 7NB
Telephone: 02087248722
Email: libraries@lbbd.gov.uk
Dagenham Library
1 Church Elm Lane, Dagenham, RM10 9QS
Telephone: 0208724 3942
Email: libraries@lbbd.gov.uk
Inclusive Software
- JAWS – Screen Reader
- ZoomText – Screen Magnifier/Reader
- Azabat – Touch Typing Tutor with Audio Instruction
- Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint Presentation
Equipment to support individual needs
Booklets
Booklets with large print and pictures showing equipment available to meet peoples’ needs. The booklets are also available in Braille.
Adaptable Equipment
- Large Screen Monitor
- High contrast Keyboard - Image of the available keyboards (PNG, 279.73 KB)
- Mouse with Customisable DPI - Images of available mouses: image 1 (PNG, 224.29 KB), image 2 (PNG, 204.19 KB)
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones - Image of the available Noise-Cancelling Headphones (PNG, 205.84 KB)
- Webcam
- Flexible Monitor Arm
- Electric Height-Adjustable Desk
Portable image reader
The Optelec ClearReader+ portable image reader scans and reads aloud printed reading material.
- Simple adjustment controls for play, pause, forward, back, reading speed, volume and voice selection.
- Compact and easy to carry with a built-in carrying handle.
- Built-in high quality stereo sound speakers or connect a headset and listen discreetly.
Inclusive services in the libraries
| Group | Description | Day | Time | Location | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inclusive Digital Zone | Accessible computers and IT equipment plus adjustable furniture. Digital Champions to help |
Monday - Thursday Friday – Saturday Sunday |
9am – 7pm 9am – 5pm 10am – 4pm |
BLC (ground floor) | BLC: 020 8724 8725 / 8722 |
| Inclusive Digital Zone | Accessible computers and IT equipment plus adjustable furniture. Digital Champions to help |
Monday - Thursday Friday – Saturday |
9am – 7pm 9am – 5pm |
Dagenham Library (first floor) | Dagenham Library: 020 8227 3942 |
| Macular Society Support Group | Welcoming group for those with sight loss caused by macular disease | First Monday of every month | 10:30am - 12:30pm | BLC, Room G14 | Dean: 07812 999 648 |
| Audio Group | Friendly group for those with hearing loss | Third Wednesday of the month | 10am – 12pm | BLC, Meeting pod 2 (ground floor) | BLC: 020 8724 8725 / 8722 |
| Digital Ability Inclusion Drop-in |
For those with hearing loss, or sight loss, or both. Learn how to use accessibility tools and Apps on your mobile, tablet, or laptop with guidance from the sensory team. |
Second and fourth Thursday of every month |
10:30am -12:30pm | Dagenham Library, Meeting Room 3 (first floor) |
Bernadette Wakeling: 020 8227 3780 Text/video call: 07772 229 294 |
| Braille Buddies | Friendly Braille learning group | Every Friday, except the last Friday of the month | 10:30am – 12:30pm | Dagenham Library, Meeting Room 1 (first floor) | Abiola: 07983 552 855 |
| Vipers | For those with sight loss. Have fun, chat, organise events and outings and have tea/coffee | Last Friday of the month | 10:30am – 12:30pm | Dagenham Library |
Ray: 07846 917 419 Intake Team: 020 8227 2915 |
| Deaf and Hard of Hearing Drop-in Service | For those with hearing loss and need information, guidance, or advice | Online service only; please text or email first, please say if you want to meet face to face. | Online by email, video call, text, or telephone | Online |
Maryan Ahmed, Deaf Community Worker: 020 8227 5567 Text/Video/Voice: 07561 703 937 Email: maryan.ahmed2@lbbd.gov.uk |
| Inclusive Digital Zone Drop-In | Friendly sessions to learn digital skills | Wednesday | 10am - 2pm | BLC (ground floor) |
BLC: 020 8724 8725 / 8722 IDZ Friendly Sessions at BLC poster (PDF, 256.65 KB) |
Basic Computer Classes (for beginners)
If you're interested in more computer classes in our hubs please visit our Computer classes and digital courses page.
