Discover this year’s recipient of the 11th Annual Network Library of the year Award, a special recognition by the National Library Service, which recognizes institutions synonymous with blind and low vision accessibility. Did you know that in Michigan alone, there are over 228,000 people living with low vision and/or blindness? This means there is a growing demand for blind / low vision services in every community, and fortunately, this demand is being met head on throughout America.

Bobbie Blakes started out as a volunteer at this year’s honored institution, and he quickly began working full time with assistive technology that’s readily available for use throughout the facility. He’s blind, and he spends most of his time with devices that can read back to him with what’s called “text-to-speech” capabilities. So, although Bobbie can’t see, he’s well-versed in all of the classics, and he’s very current and connected with the literary world.

Because a large portion of the library’s patrons are senior citizens, Bobbie takes delight in revealing to older folks that low vision technology is extremely easy to use, contrary to the common sentiment that reading machines are difficult. “Once they get used to it, they love it.”, Bobbie says. This type of equipment makes it possible for seniors to remain independent, as it gives them back the ability to read, or even write, which is something only made possible by cutting-edge technology. Out of 55 libraries specifically outfitted for blind / low vision accessibility, click here to see which one was deemed this year’s most impressive