Inter-Library Memo

To: Library Director
From: Staff Member evaluating the Adapt-a-Lap
RE: "I love the Adapt-a-lap"

I used it at home two weeks & found it very versatile -- in bed, in recliner chair, etc. My wrists get tired because I type too much, so it was a godsend (well --that's excessive) --but I want to buy my own for home.

However, I don't know if appropriate for our library use. It's sturdy enough, except for the filaments & the straps & easy enough to use, but --

1. How send instructions with it?
2. How do we display so it won't get vandalized? (or stolen)
3. If we keep behind desk, how will we promote so people will find out about it? Flyers to the homebound? Signs?
4. Barcodes & Theft stickers easily peelable.
5. We seem not to be doing a booming bit in ASSISTIVE TECH right now.

The Directors response:

Here's the evaluation by my staff member. Obviously you have a convert.

As I mentioned, I think her list of issues can be regarded as planning criteria, not problems. Because other librarians may raise these issues at ALA, here are my answers.

As we discussed, the filaments are sturdier than they look.

1. We can enclose a photocopy of your instructions with the Adapt-a-LAP, so if the borrower loses the instructions, we can replace them easily. (we already this with CD-ROMs.)
2. We can display a photograph of the Adapt-a-Lap and let users request it at the desk. We'll probably put the Adapt-a-Lap and the instructions into a large plastic bag with a hanging hook and circulate them both in the bag. To prevent theft, we may check it out for in-library use as well as home use, but we haven't discussed that.
3. Same as #2 above.
4. We'll put the barcode on the bag and just put the ownership marks on the unit. We do that on many items.
5. The demand for assistive tech demand comes and goes in libraries. I think lots of people use assistive technology in libraries partly to try it out before buying it for home use. When we make one available, we'll find out.

Try the Adapt-A-Lap risk free in your library or school for 60 days. After your evaluation, and you see how it helps you to help your patrons or students, authorize payment. If for any reason you feel that the Adapt-A-Lap did not meet your expectations, simply return it and we will cancel the invoice.

Call (800) 419-2354 for more information and set up a free evaluation for your library or school today! Satisfaction is guaranteed.

" Just wanted to let you know how much the Adapt-a-Lap has helped me to be comfortable reading. It's a marvelous invention and it sure makes it a pleasure and more comfortable to hold my book in a great position without wearing out my arthritic hands. Our Sanibel Public Library had it on display and patrons were permitted to take it home to test it out. This will give you an indication as to how innovative our library director is. Suggest you get in touch with other libraries."   Adelaide - Library Patron