Accessibility Resources

• The library building and grounds maintain ADA compliance including accessible parking, touchless door buttons, and elevator access 
• Service desks with table height surfaces
• A wheelchair on each floor in case of public need or emergency (1st floor in book sale area, 2nd floor by public copy center)
• Catalog stations with push button adjustable height
• Policies informed by the ALA Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement using gender-neutral language
• Service animals policy (Chapter 6: Library Conduct, #18)
• Kickstools and stepstools throughout building
• Emergency procedures accounting for staff and patrons in need of assistance
• Signage on fire barrier stairwell
• Homebound and Outreach program funded by the WDM Public Library Friends Foundation
• DART public transportation access
• System for placing holds on items to pickup and available curbside delivery
• Automatic renewals for materials without pending holds
• Technology items and Library of Things items available for checkout
• Seating available for programs
• Shopping baskets for browsing
• Access to free public fax and scanning, courtesy phone at Youth Services Desk, free public wifi, low-cost public printing
• Curated displays reflecting current events, holidays and more

FAQs

Q: Does the WDM Public Library have diaper changing stations to accommodate adults?

A: No, there are currently no ADA accessible spaces available in the library large enough or with proper infrastructure to accommodate this type of equipment. The need has been documented for future renovations, expansions or creation of new facilities.

Q: Does the WDM Public Library have a drive-up materials return?

A:  No, there is no code compliant location on the building where a drive up could be added and staffed. Detached materials returns could compromise the materials in inclement weather and would require additional staffing. There is a walk-up outdoor materials return with high-visibility signage and an indoor materials return in the lobby. Curbside service is also available. Most Library materials can also be returned to the Library's Valley Junction Kiosk.  

Q: I have mobility challenges, how do WDM Public Library procedures account for my safety in an emergency?

A: Library procedures offer guidelines and instruction for staff during an emergency. Staff are trained to provide accommodations including offering assistance to patrons on the 2nd floor with mobility challenges, flashing building lights for hearing impaired patrons, and communicating with emergency personnel assisting with evacuations using stair chairs and other equipment. 

Q: Why are all the new adult materials now on the 2nd floor?

A: With the 2019-2021 renovation and addition of the Teen Center, the Youth and Adult collections were purposely separated by floor. Adult materials and services are now located on 2nd floor and the library’s most high traffic areas are located on the 1st floor - the Youth Department, Accounts and Checkout, and programming spaces. This change allows for quiet space on the 2nd floor and more noise/activity on the 1st floor. To help with this change: 

• An “all ages” space remains on the 1st floor and includes the self-checkout machines, a copy center (fax, scanner, copier), a health room, a public phone, the Friends Foundation book sale, and the Library Living Room with vending machines.

• A curated display with adult materials was added in the Self-Serve Holds area for “quick pick items.”   

• Noise dampening sound machines were installed on the 1st floor to provide a noise buffer between the floors. 

• Maps with updated locations are available throughout the library. 

Patrons are always welcome to ask for assistance locating and retrieving items anywhere in the library.  

Q: What happened to the sliding doors at the main entrance? 

A: The main entrance doors were transitioned from sliding doors to swinging doors in 2014. The reason for this change was due to the building’s foundation settling knocking the door frame out of square, which caused the automated sliding doors to fail mechanically and architecturally. Also, the new HVAC system installed in 2014 required a more airtight seal on the doors. In 2023, the front door buttons were upgraded to a touchless model to help with accessibility. 

Q: Does the library offer any targeted programming, like sensory specific story times? 

A: The WDM Public Library works hard to make every program enjoyable to all patrons using an inclusive model for programming. If you have specific accessibility or accommodation questions for an upcoming event, please email library@wdm.iowa.gov or call 515-222-3408.

The WDM Public Library participated in the Central Iowa Sensory Spaces initiative 2021-2023 but discontinued the offering due to lack of participation.  

Q: Does the WDM Public Library provide digital access to programs and meetings?

A: Library programs with digital access will be noted accordingly on the Library calendar. The City of West Des Moines and the West Des Moines Public Library encourages open access and participation in City government, including virtual access to meetings. If you have specific accessibility or accommodation questions, please email library@wdm.iowa.gov or call 515-222-3408.

Q: How did the library's 2019-2021 renovation address mobility in emergencies?

A: Fire barrier signage was added, emergency exit signage and lighting were updated, the library staff procedure for fires and fire drills were updated, the comprehensive map was updated to include fire extinguishers and updated emergency exit maps were posted and provided to the WDM Fire Department. 

• CyraCom audio and video/ASL interpreting services available
• Use of Google Translate 
• Use of paper/pen for back-and-forth interactions with patrons who are non-verbal 
• Language materials available in Youth Services
• Interlibrary Loan for other language materials 
• Self-checks and print-release stations display in multiple languages 
• Digital resources for languages and with a variety of subtitle options

FAQs

Q: What handouts or signs are available in languages other than English?

A: WDM Public Library is currently working to translate several important brochures and instructional sheets to the primary written languages identified by WDM Community School District (Spanish, Hakha and Arabic).

The New Residents Corner offers library materials, literature, and community information in several languages. If you have specific accessibility or accommodation questions for print materials, please email library@wdm.iowa.gov or call 515-222-3408.

Q: Does WDM Public Library offer classes for ELL (English Language Learners)? 

A: No, but we can provide information about local options available, such as through West Des Moines Human Services.

• Flashing of building lights at closing and other emergency announcements
• Emergency procedures accounting for staff and patrons in need of assistance
• Digital resources provide a variety of subtitle options
• Use of paper/pen of speech to text on mobile devices for back-and-forth interactions with patrons
• 2024 updates to building elevators (both public and staff). Updates include visual and audible cues as well as screens and buttons for dispatchers to communicate with occupants during an emergency. 

FAQs

Q: Does the WDM Public Library provide hearing loops?

A: No, In 2023 the Library investigated obtaining the same type of equipment that WDM Community Schools uses to assist students with cochlear implants. It was determined this equipment may not work with all devices. The library is able to offer sound amplification during programs.  If you have specific accessibility or accommodation questions for, please email library@wdm.iowa.gov or call 515-222-3408.

Q: Does WDM Public Library provide interpreters for programs?

A: Patrons in need of an interpreter should contact the library prior to attending a program. If you have specific accessibility or accommodation questions for an upcoming event, please email library@wdm.iowa.gov or call 515-222-3408.  

Q: Does WDM Public Library have a chat service available?

A: No, the library offered chat service on the website starting in 2020 but it was discontinued in 2022 due to lack of use.

• Large wayfinding maps located in lobby and at top of main staircase - printed maps available at all four public elevator entrances, at top of main staircase, and at all service desks. 
• Virtual tour
• Paper towels available instead of air dryer in family restroom
• Health Room with fidgets and adjustable lighting 
• Learning Kits available to checkout
• White noise machine on 1st floor
• Signage indicating quiet zones  
• Private study and meeting rooms 
• Social Story created in 2023 
• Tablets and laptops available for in-library use
• Noise cancelling headphones available for checkout
• Homebound and Outreach programs and resources for memory care.

• Use of general-neutral language in policies, procedures and marketing 
• Pronoun buttons available for staff and pronoun button making programs

• In-school library education and library card signup efforts
• Patrons age 14+ can sign up for their own library card
• Emergency Hygiene kits available  
• Period product dispensers transitioned to free in 2023
• Health Room for injections and other medical uses 
• First aid kits including glucose gel, reviewed every 6 months 
• Library staff participate in emergency training and some are trained as first responders.
• Partnership with WDM Youth Justice Initiative 
• Unattended Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy that addresses the minimum age for patrons to be alone in the building and the responsibilities of caregivers. 
• Free DART rides to the library during Read Across America week
• WiFi Hotspot and tablet checkout
• The library is a heating/cooling center during extreme temperatures
• Homebound and Outreach services
• $1 free printing per day for library card holders
• Free programs, year-round

FAQs

Q: Is WDM Public Library a Fine Free Library?

A: No, a statistical analysis in 2020 showed the majority of our patrons who have fines are below the $10 threshold (raised from $5 in 2021) where access to services would be impacted. Additionally, WDM Public Library auto-renews materials without holds to extend checkouts and reduce potential for fines. 

Q: Are sharps containers available at WDM Public Library? 

A: No, sharps containers are not available in public restrooms due to safety concerns. 

Q: Does the WDM Public Library have Narcan onsite for drug overdoses?

A: No, while the State of Iowa provides Narcan for public facilities, there are currently no library staff with medical training to administer the medication so we do not have any onsite. However, the proximity of EMS to our location and the short response time means it can be onsite with professionals in a timely manner.

Q: Has the WDM Public Library considered hiring a social worker?

A: Yes, a student practicum placement with University of Iowa was tested in 2021. A Social Work student with experience in libraries volunteered to do an unpaid internship during the first post-COVID school year. Currently, in place of a social worker, WDM residents are referred to WDM Human Services.

Q: Does WDM Public Library have a food pantry or community fridge?

A: No, these services are provided locally through WDM Human Services and other local service providers. 

• Conduct policy and associated procedures adopted to protect staff and patron safety
• Service policy to protect staff’s ability to prioritize needs of WDM and contract community residents   
• Ongoing staff training, employee assistance program access and committee initiatives to support staff wellness
• Programs focusing on aspects of mindfulness and wellbeing

• New Residents Corner located on 2nd floor where Library and community resources and information are available
• Marketing materials representative of the community and actual patrons/ participants
• Library staff participation in city-wide Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.
• Meet Your Neighbors Storyboxes
• Library collections curated to reflect the diverse WDM Community 
• Library outreach at community events

FAQs

Q: Can Library staff assist with the citizenship process? 

A: No, due to potential liability, unless legally or governmentally sanctioned or trained to help with any aspect of citizenship papers, staff may not assist patrons with citizenship process. Staff can provide information and resources for local assistance. 

Q: How is Library artwork chosen?

A: In-building artwork was originally purchased using a committee and a professional art curator. Art has since been accepted by donation and commissioned. The purposeful lack of depiction of humans in Library artwork is intentional in allowing creativity, thoughtfulness and inclusion.

• Contrast and text size options on public PCs and print release stations
• Use of accessible font and text size in marketing and signage
• 2023 addition of color-coded wayfinding on 2nd floor
• Large Print materials
• Audio materials 
• Print-enlarging machine available on 2nd floor
• Magnifying glasses and reading glasses available for in-library use
• Access to resources from Iowa Library for the Blind