Literacy Resources Lending

Adult Resources

Audiobooks – Both physical and digital audiobooks (available on Borrowbox) can be used on their own or with a physical book.
Books – There are a range of different book publications that may be useful for adults returning to or improving their reading skills, including:
- Gatehouse: a wonderful series with true to life stories and accessible text, available in all library branches.
- Readers from Oxford, Penguin and other publishers provide text at graded levels. Some are abridged versions of classic stories.
- Quick Reads and Open Door are shorter novels for adults. They are suitable for adults developing their reading or returning to reading after some time.

Readers – These are series of books that are graded at different levels to guide parents of children just learning to read. Library staff can assist with finding the best level for each child.
Barrington Stoke - These books are usually suitable for readers with dyslexia and are Hi Lo (High Interest Age Low Reading Age). They have stories written to suit older readers with language that is easier to read.
The Fact Factory Magazine – magazine series is available in Portlaoise Library and come with a reader pen to read text out loud.
eBooks – are available on Borrowbox and allow users to adjust the size and shape of text. It is also possible to change the background from white which may help users with dyslexia or reading challenges.
TTRS – Touch Type Read and Spell is a programme to develop typing skills and can be helpful with learning new words. Free access is available with library membership for a period of time. Email literacyresources@laoiscoco.ie for more information.
C-Pens – these devices can scan text in a book and read it back to users.

For further information, email library@laoiscoco.ie or call 057 8689338.