OUTREACH SERVICES CCLS HOME PAGE

TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR THE DEAF

Thanks to the generosity of
the Jamestown's ALLTEL telephone company,
the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System has a Krown TDD with a built-in printer for patrons  to borrow for a two-week loan period.

WHAT IS A TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR THE DEAF?

A Telecommunication Device for the Deaf - or TDD is a compact device that uses computer technology, a typewriter keyboard and a letter display and/or printer to allow deaf or speech impaired persons to converse over telephone lines without the need of an interpreter. Calls can be made directly to another person having similar equipment or - through an easily accessible New York State Relay System - to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

WHY BORROW A TDD?

TDD's are not commonly known to the public because they are rarely displayed and range from approximately $250 to $600 to purchase. They also require some instruction and practice before their use becomes comfortable. Most frequently, our patrons request the loan of a TDD to evaluate if such a device might be an appropriate investment for them. Our TDD is also borrowed for temporary needs and special instances.

BORROWING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES.

ARRANGEMENTS TO BORROW OUR TDD MUST BE MADE THROUGH OUTREACH SERVICES. PLEASE CONTACT:

Pat Johnson, Outreach Coordinator
Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System
106 W. Fifth Street
Jamestown NY 14701
Phone: 484-07135, EXT. 243
Email to: pjohnson@cclslib.org


BORROWING RULES:

A borrower must fill out an application form and show proof of identity and address: such as a Driver's License or an envelope with a postmark indicating that s/he had received mail recently at the given address. We must also have the name, address and phone number of a contact person through whom we can call and leave a message for the borrower.

  1. Borrowers must be Chautauqua or Cattaraugus County residents and a minimum of 18 years of age.
  2. The TDD must be reserved in advance for a specific date.
  3. The maximum loan period is two weeks.
  4. Only one booking per month is allowed to assure availability to others.
  5. Please be prompt in making your return on the assigned due date as other patrons may be scheduled to pick up the TDD. The Library system reserves the right to withhold further loans to borrowers who fail to show this consideration.

    HOW CAN I LEARN TO USE THE TDD?

    Full instructions come with the TDD, however, the Outreach Librarian at CCLS may also be scheduled for a preliminary introduction to its care and operation. For an appointment, contact Helen Bolton at the address, phone or email listed above.