Programs for the Disabled

Special Library Services

The Wyoming Department of Education administers FREE library services for Wyoming residents who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, visually impaired, or otherwise reading-disabled. The State Library is proud to highlight these programs.

Young Girl Signing with her Mother
Blind man listening to talking book

Wyoming Talking Books

It’s estimated that over 18,000 people in Wyoming are unable to read regular print material due to visual, physical, or reading disabilities. If you’re struggling with such an impairment—whether your condition is permanent or temporary—you qualify for the program.

The Talking Books Program is a service of the Wyoming Department of Education. All questions about the program should be addressed to the WDE contact, Leslie Bechtel Van Orman.

Wyoming Deaf Library

Located in Casper, the Outreach Library for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing provides assistive technology resources and reading materials for people of all ages. Below is a partial list of the resources and services you’ll find available, along with helpful staff who are anxious to lend a hand.

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Instructional material for teachers

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Sign Language dictionaries, children’s books and DVDs

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Language development resources

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Auditory training materials

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Assistive technology materials

Hearing impaired woman with friend
Specialist adjusting hearing aid for child

Outreach Services for the Deaf

WDE’s Deaf or Hard of Hearing Services provides consultative services and instructional leadership by offering training, support and guidance to all Wyoming school districts, child development centers and community organizations. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for students impacted by hearing loss through training, support and guidance to families and all related professionals who endeavor to empower all children who are deaf or hard of hearing to reach their full potential.

This program is a service of the Wyoming Department of Education. All questions about the program should be addressed to the WDE contact, Billie Wortham.