10-17-2025

For the month of October, the library is hosting a display of assistive technology supplied by Society’s Assets.

Society Assets is a 501(c)3 Independent Living Center with locations in Racing, Kenosha, and Elkhorn. Their mission is to support all persons with disabilities to live and function independently. To help reach that goal they maintain a Loan Closet Program similar to our Library of Things. The philosophy for these items is “Try Before You Buy.” Our October display includes a handful of the 1,200+ items in this program.

For the most part items in the display are designed to assist people whose disability falls into one of three categories: hearing impairment, sight impairment, or cognitive impairment.

The more techie items include a bed shaker to awaken someone who would not hear an alarm clock and a device that uses a light indicator in place of sounds such as a doorbell. There is also a variety of kitchen devices for the sight impaired. The measuring devices use shape to indicate their capacity while a peeler is mounted to suction cups that hold it in place while the food is brought to the cutting edge rather than the other way around.

Kalli Hauter, the Community Engagement Coordinator who set up the display, told me the pill dispenser she brought is just one of several designs they offer for trial. Medication is placed inside and released by a timer. One that she described allows for a week’s worth of medication to be loaded and programmed. A time opens the door and closes it. That way the medication is inaccessible the time is missed and the person cannot double dose. It would also clearly indicate when a dose was missed making it easier to track all intake. This is a great example of the benefits of a Try Before You Buy program.

With several option available, having the opportunity for a demonstration of various devices at one time allows for a more informed choice plus a no cost trial option. Kalli also mentioned their voucher program that helps supplement the costs of some of the technology.

Along with the display, we have entry blanks for their youth art contest, which explains the criteria. The theme is Everyone Can. Entries must be postmarked by November 7, 2025. Winners will receive a cash prize and recognition gift.

Stop in the library to take a look at the display and grab a brochure. Calling their toll-free number, 1-800-378-9128, will reach any of the offices.

Reading Now: The Shack by William Paul Young

Listening to Now: Black Notice by Joy Ellis (Bk #11 in Jackman & Evans Series)