Telecoils (T-coils) help patrons hear more clearly in all GCPL locations
Geauga County – June 21, 2016 – Geauga County Public Library is pleased to introduce its new hearing loop system that magnetically transmits sound from the PA system to the telecoils in patrons’ hearing aids. This technology allows people who are struggling with hearing loss to enjoy presentations and conversations. Muffled sounds become crystal clear for people who have had difficulty hearing, even with the help of their hearing aids.
Many churches, subways, airports and universities already use telecoils, and users find it to be life changing. Libraries are community spaces where people routinely share ideas and converse with each other. This extremely affordable technology allows a wider patron base to enjoy the many resources their libraries provide. This technology greatly enhances the audio experience in all GCPL locations for anyone who struggles with hearing loss.
“We want our buildings to be welcoming to everyone,” says Ed Worso, GCPL Director. “Hearing loss is a reality for many of our patrons, but it’s not something that has to impact them negatively in our buildings. We are pleased to offer this hearing loop in all our facilities. When people who wear hearing aids first flip the switch to activate their T-coils, they immediately smile and share how happy they are to hear conversations.”
Why aren’t hearing aids enough? Today’s digital hearing aids enhance hearing in conversational settings. Yet, for many people with hearing loss, the sound becomes unclear when auditorium or TV loudspeakers are at a distance, when the context is noisy, or when room acoustics reverberate sound. A hearing loop magnetically transfers the microphone or TV sound signal to hearing aids and cochlear implants that have a tiny, inexpensive telecoil receiver. This transforms the instruments into in-the- ear loudspeakers that deliver sound customized for one’s own hearing loss.
Look for the blue and white symbol with the ear and the letter “T” in our buildings. This sign is a reminder to switch hearing aids to “T” mode. Happy hearing!
About the Geauga County Public Library
The Geauga County Public Library includes four full-service community libraries in Bainbridge, Chardon, Chesterland (Geauga West) and Middlefield; two library stations housed in schools in Newbury and Thompson; one Bookmobile that serves farms, nursing homes and nursery schools; a Lobby Stop vehicle; and one administrative center where technical services, computer services, facilities and administrative functions reside. GCPL has more than 500,000 books and e-books. The collection also contains more than 100,000 audio / video items and 400 research databases available through its website. GCPL is a member of the SearchOhio / OhioLINK consortium, giving patrons access to more than 66 million items. Learn more about the Geauga County Public Library at the GCPL website, GeaugaLibrary.net.
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