The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is committed to making our spaces, services, and collections welcoming and accessible for all members of our community.
AODA Statement
The Ottawa Public Library is a designated public sector organization under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and is committed to meeting the accessibility needs of people with disabilities.
Contact Information
InfoService: General information and assistance regarding accessibility services, including accommodation requests or questions about our accessibility collections.
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Phone: 613-580-2940
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Chat: Available on our website during operating hours
Homebound Services: Services for individuals unable to leave their home for over three months due to age, physical disabilities, or health conditions.
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Phone: 613-580-2944
Accessibility Office: For questions regarding sensitive or complex accessibility matters.
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Phone: 613-580-2424 ext. 28321
Accessible Borrowing
The library offers accessible library card types to help you access our materials.
With Accessibility Status, you get a six-week loan and six-week renewal period for all items, except for downloadable digital media and Express items.
If you have trouble seeing, you can request Talking Book status. This will allow you to borrow DAISY books and Victor Readers.
You can request either status by speaking with staff at a branch, Bookmobile stop, or by calling InfoService.
Please note that clients are responsible for:
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Picking up and returning their material to a Library branch or Bookmobile stop.
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Paying all fees and charges. Check the loan period and fees page for more details.
Accessible Services and Collections:
Explore our additional services and collections aimed at accessibility:
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Accessible Collection: Discover our diverse range of materials, including large print books, audiobooks, and materials in alternative formats.
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Assistive Technology and Equipment: Learn about the assistive technology available at OPL, empowering patrons with various abilities to access and enjoy our resources.
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CELA (Centre for Equitable Library Access): CELA provides additional resources for OPL clients who have a print disability. This includes braille and print braille books, online newspapers and magazines, braille music scores and titles for adults, kids and teens. You can self-register for CELA using your Ottawa Public Library card.
Accommodation Request Form
The Ottawa Public Library is committed to helping people with disabilities take part in library activities. We will cover the cost of necessary support and can help book any services you need.
If you require accessibility support, fill out the Accessible Services Request Form.
If you need help with the form, contact our InfoService team or visit any branch. Once you submit the form, our accessibility team will work with you to get you the support you need.
Please keep in mind that it's best to give us at least three weeks' notice for any accessible service requests. If you need to cancel, please let us know at least two business days in advance, so we can avoid any charges.