SERVICE UPDATE: Starting on Monday, May 25, for approximately 2-3 weeks, we’ll be making significant updates to spaces in our Eastside Branch. During that time certain services will be unavailable and there may be an increase in noise. For a full list of impacted services, click here.

Hearing Loops Now Available at WPL Service Points

May 21, 2026

We have a new way to make conversations clearer and more accessible. Hearing loops (assistive listening devices) are now available at service points across three of our library locations, helping customers who are hard of hearing connect more easily with staff.

This work is part of our ongoing commitment to accessibility and creating a place for all. Through our Strategic Plan, we’re focused on making sure our spaces, services, and experiences reflect the diverse and evolving needs of our community. Improving access – whether through technology, design, or service – is a key part of that work.

The hearing loops were installed with support from the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA) as part of a City of Waterloo initiative to improve accessibility across public spaces. It’s one of many ways we’re working to remove barriers and make the library more welcoming for everyone.

Making our spaces more accessible is ongoing work – and an important part of how we serve our community. Whether it’s through new technology, thoughtful design, or everyday service, we’re committed to creating a library where more people can connect, learn, and belong.

Learn more about hearing loops below, or visit the Accessibility page to see all the ways WPL is working to improve access.

  • What is a hearing loop?

    A hearing loop is a simple, effective technology that helps people hear more clearly in noisy environments.

    It works by sending sound directly from a microphone to a hearing aid or cochlear implant using an electromagnetic signal. Because the sound goes straight to the listener’s device, background noise is reduced and speech becomes clearer and easier to understand.

  • How does it work?

    When you’re at a service point with a hearing loop:

    • Look for the blue hearing loop symbol
    • Switch your hearing aid or cochlear implant to the “T” (telecoil) setting
    • Speech from staff will be transmitted directly to your device

    If you don’t have a hearing aid or don’t use a T‑coil, a loop receiver headset is available to borrow during your visit.

    Staff will think speak normally near the microphone and the system automatically picks up and transmits their voice.

  • What is a T‑coil?

    A T‑coil (or telecoil) is a small component inside many hearing aids that allows them to connect with assistive listening systems like Hearing Loops.

    When activated, the T‑coil receives the sound signal from the device, giving users a clearer, more direct listening experience. If you’re not sure whether your device has a T‑coil, your audiologist can help.

  • Why does this matter?

    More than 1.6 million Canadians identify as having a hearing disability, and many experience barriers in public spaces – especially when it comes to communication.

    Hearing loops help reduce those barriers by making conversations easier, clearer, and more comfortable. At the library, that means better access to information, services, and support.

  • Where can I find a hearing loop at WPL?

    Hearing loops are now available at service points at the Main Library, John M. Harper Branch and Eastside Branch. They will become available at the McCormick Branch after the upcoming renovations scheduled to begin later this year.