Digital Resources

Virtual Reality Kits

In December 2023, we were delighted to be the first Library service in Europe to launch the Rendever virtual reality kit. Rendever, an American company particularly interested in older persons' health & well-being, developed a package of virtual reality hardware, software, and wide-ranging content, that creates shared experiences for the senior age cohort, where the group can be transported into a shared immersive experience anywhere in the world!

The kit, including headsets, is networked to a tablet with wide-ranging content on it, from diving with dolphins, flying in a hot air balloon, to visiting anywhere in the world, and every user is experiencing the same thing at the same time. Rendever has developed customised reminiscence therapy tools, allowing people to revisit locations from their past and chat with the group about it. It also provides opportunities to check off bucket list items, and engage with the world in ways no longer thought possible.

It can also help rekindle old connections or develop new ones, through the power of shared experience! Users can be guided by a moderator either within the group or by library staff, participating in experiences, games, quizzes and much more. If your group or organisation would like to discuss a visit to the library to try out this fantastic, fun technology, please contact libraryit@dlrcoco.ie for more information.

Reader Pens

We have a service on offer to members of the public called Reader Pens. Reader Pens read words and full lines of text aloud for independent reading. Those with dyslexia, those who have difficulty with reading or pronunciation, those learning languages or those with vision problems will find these pens extremely helpful pieces of technology.

This device reads text out with natural speaking voice. The pens have built-in dictionaries so you can access definitions as you read for better understanding.

These devices can be borrowed, by any library user for an eight week loan period. To access these pens please email libraryculture@dlrcoco.ie

Please note we also have Reader Pens available for reference use within all eight branch libraries.

The Reader Pen:

• Text-to-speech technology develops reading comprehension and confidence
• Multiple built-in dictionaries help nurture language learners
• Easy to use functions promote reading independence for people of all ages
• Reads text out aloud.
• Looks up and reads out definitions of words.
• Complete privacy/Secure – no scanned/read data stored.
• No WiFi required.
• Speaker and earphone jack.
• Rechargeable battery.

ACORN Tablet

Since the onset of the pandemic, we have all had to rely a lot more on technology to stay connected. But those without access to devices, or those who do not have the skills to use them, can find themselves increasingly excluded from society.

The new ACORN tablet project from the dlr Digital Inclusion working group hopes to help bridge the digital divide by providing age-friendly, easy-to-use technology. The ACORN tablet is designed with the older person in mind, and the principle behind the tablet is to provide more accessible options for those with little or no computer or smart device experience. The home screen is clear and easy to navigate .

Hear more about this wonderful service available in dlr Libraries, by clicking here.

ACORN tablets are now available for lending to all dlr Library members. For more information on this lending scheme, contact your local branch.