UCP, through its Assistive Technology Services division, operates two distinct lending libraries from its Camp Hill Administrative Office

 

The Centralized Assistive Technology (AT) Lending Library—commonly referred to as the Statewide Lending Library—consists of over 400 different types of technology and devices to support the independence of individuals all across the state in their day-to-day lives and routines. The devices support an unlimited number of tasks; with new technology and devices continually being added.

This library offers everything from low-tech items like adaptive gardening tools to the latest high-tech offerings in Augmentative and Alternative Communications Devices (such as used by Stephen Hawking to enable speech). Some devices support hearing or vision; they allow an individual to make or receive a phone call or read text. Other devices support an individual’s communication through speech-generating applications on an iPad or more specialized device. Still others allow an individual to participate in play or leisure activities through the use of switches or adaptive gaming controls and systems.

These are but a few examples of what the statewide lending library has available for all Pennsylvanians with disabilities—providing an opportunity to trial tools and technology in order to determine the best solution for a given need. Everything in the statewide lending library inventory can be loaned for up to 9 weeks.

To borrow items from the statewide lending library: The individual must complete an online loan request form* detailing what equipment they want to borrow and why. Explain why you are trying it out: for insurance purposes, for your own personal trial, or to determine the best technology device or application option for a given need. It is the concept of Try before you buy.

The individual browses the inventory catalog online, selects the items they want to borrow, and submits the online request form. The items are shipped directly to them for a nine-week trial loan period.  At the conclusion of the loan period, the items are shipped back to the Centralized AT Lending Library at no cost to the individual.

* People who do not have access to the online form can call UCP’s AT Specialist to complete the form together over the phone.

ATRC Onsite Lending Library: Pennsylvania has 9 Assistive Technology Resource Centers (ATRCs) across the state, of which UCP is one. Each ATRC is assigned a certain region of the state to support the needs of individuals in the counties of that region. Each has their own onsite lending library. UCP’s onsite lending library serves individuals with disabilities in a 13-county area.

UCP provides training and support through video conferencing or in person demos. Equipment may be loaned for a 4-week period, with the option to extend or renew the trial. The library is managed internally by UCP staff.

To borrow items from UCP/local ATRC: contact UCP (or another local ATRC) directly to determine what is available in inventory. The family member, therapist or another interested third party would come on site to pick up the item(s) and complete the necessary paperwork.

TechOwl provides funding that supports staffing of both lending libraries and continuous updating of equipment and technology available in the statewide lending library.

 

For more information, please contact UCP Central PA’s Assistive Technology Program at 717-737-3477 or email ATUCP@ucpcentralpa.org.