GENERAL INFORMATION
Beginning Fall 2024, RCLS member libraries will have the opportunity to request an assistive translation device to support the programs and services of their library. Each member library will be able to receive one device. RCLS is working with Translate Live to provide the hardware and software as well as these devices.
The Instant Language Assistant (ILA) "is a suite of language access tools that facilitates natural real-time conversations on demand for any combination of two or more people, remote or in-person, speaking over 200 languages & dialects. ILA is the only suite of translation tools for businesses combining HIPAA-compliant AI with 100% accurate pre-loaded phrases, and the ability to bring on live interpreters at the touch of a button".
Libraries must satisfy three requirements to receive a device:
2) Watch a pre-recorded training session
3) Attend a live training (information available in the "Training Video & Dates" box on this page)
RCLS MINI GRANT
The RCLS Assistive Technology Mini-Grant application is now open!
The Ramapo Catskill Library System seeks to provide an assistive technology device for member libraries to support library users who speak a variety of languages or people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The period for the first grant will run January 2025 through December 2027. The second will run May 2025 through April 2028. Each library has the opportunity to receive the following:
1 device (TranslateLive tablet) complete with three-year software subscription
Access to a live American Sign Language interpreter services
Access to language being read out loud services
Application Guidelines
- Applicants must be an RCLS member library.
- Applicants must submit a paragraph answering the questions:
- How will this device be utilized?
- How would the library ensure that the device is accessible
- Who would submit an evaluation report and proof of usage (could be images of device in use).
- Who from the library will be attending a training session (training dates and times will be provided).
Eligibility
All RCLS member library directors, managers and librarians are eligible to apply. Only one device per library will be provided.
Deadlines and Announcements
- All applications for the second round must be received prior to April 25, 2025
- Recipients will be notified by email.
- Devices will be delivered to the library after the applicant has submitted proof of attendance of one training session.
Selective Procedure
- Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant with a note indicating the error or omission.
- Recipients will be chosen by an RCLS committee.
Evaluation Report
- Recipients are required to write a brief evaluation report about their experience, describing the value and impact of the device for their community. All or part of this report may then be used in future RCLS publicity and advocacy.
- Recipients may be asked to share their experience with the local library community or elective officials at an RCLS event.
The deadline to apply is April 25, 2025. Should the library wish to continue with the subscription after May 2028 (for the second round of mini grants), the library will contract with TranslateLive for a price of $480 per year. Questions may be directed to Jen Park, jen@rcls.org, and Meaghan Doyle, meaghan@rcls.org. Please click here for the grant application.
TRAINING VIDEO & DATES
In order for an RCLS member library to receive an assistive translation device, at least one staff member from the library must view the training video found here. The staff member must then attend one live training session:
April 8th at 1:30p
April 21st at 2:00p
These live sessions will not be recorded. Click here to access the RCLS Code of Conduct.