About Hearing Loops
Hearing loss is a major public health issue affecting 1 in 5 people. Several local libraries now offer service desk hearing loops and/or meeting room loops for patrons who use hearing aids or cochlear implants.
What is a hearing loop? A hearing loop system is an Assistive Listening System that transfers sound—from a microphone or TV—directly to your hearing device or cochlear implant, via a tiny and inexpensive telecoil (t-coil) receiver.
What are the benefits of hearing loops?
- Works with your existing hearing devices—no extra purchases or devices required.
- No extra noise, wall bounce, echo or sound distortion.
- Delivers customized sound to your devices.
- Can be installed in your home, car, house of worship, or public transit venues.
- Sound is contained to your devices—never worry about bothering others.
How do I use a hearing loop? All cochlear implants and approximately70% of hearing aids have a built in wireless receiver called a telecoil (t-coil). To use a hearing loop, simply turn on your t-coil by pushing a button on the hearing device. This t-coil program may need to be activated by your audiologist. The library also has a loop receiver that may be helpful for persons who are hard of hearing or do not have a hearing aid equipped with a t-coil.
Libraries in the Bridges Library System with Hearing Loops
Big Bend Village Library*
Butler Public Library*
Brookfield Public Library
Delafield Public Library
Elm Grove Public Library*
Hartland Public Library*
Irvin L. Young Memorial Library (Whitewater)*
Jefferson Public Library*
Karl Junginger Memorial Library (Waterloo)*
L.D. Fargo Public Library (Lake Mills)*
Mukwonago Community Library
Menomonee Falls Public Library
Muskego Public Library
New Berlin Public Library*
Oconomowoc Public Library
Pauline Haass Public Library (Sussex)*
Pewaukee Public Library
Town Hall Library (North Lake)*
Watertown Public Library
Waukesha Public Library
*Library has service desk loops only.
Have a Question or Want to Learn More?
For questions about your hearing aids and t-coils, consult with your audiologist. For questions about the Bridges Library System hearing loop project, contact Bridges staff member Angela Meyers via email or phone at 262-896-8245.