Bringing Assistive Technology to Rural Nebraska
In the small rural town of Fullerton, Nebraska, home to around 1,500 residents, the local library plays a vital role in supporting the community. When we spoke with Laurel Marlatt, Director of the Fullerton Public Library, she emphasized her mission to ensure the library meets the needs of everyone, including those with vision loss.
Laurel told us the library received an ONYX Desktop Video Magnifier through a statewide initiative led by a local organization. The project placed 300 ONYX units in libraries across Nebraska to help make reading more accessible to those with low vision.
While the ONYX is used by just a few patrons at her location, Laurel said it’s already proven its value. One example she shared was during a recent election, when a local resident used the ONYX to read the sample ballot printed in the newspaper. It allowed them to understand the information independently and feel confident heading into the voting booth.
When we asked what motivates her to prioritize this kind of accessibility, Laurel shared a deeply personal story. Her grandmother lost her vision when Laurel was only three years old and could only perceive light and dark. She remembers watching her grandmother knit using an abacus and listen to audio books from flexible vinyl record. “Growing up with anyone that has a physical challenge in some manner changes the way you see the world and those that share those struggles,” shared Laurel. “Grandma was so trusting of a very young granddaughter, only now do I understand the complete trust she put in me.”
Though she’s been working in libraries for only a few years, Laurel told us one of the key principles she learned early on is that a library should reflect the needs of its community. In Fullerton, that means offering large print books, helpful staff, and devices like the ONYX to support patrons with visual impairments.
As Laurel reflected on her work, she shared how proud she is to help create a library space that’s inclusive and supportive of all individuals—something that’s especially meaningful in a smaller, rural community. “Clearly, having the ONYX available is meeting needs here,” she said. “And I’m proud to be doing my part.”
Learn More
What is the ONYX Deskset HD?
The ONYX Deskset HD is a portable video magnifier designed for individuals with low vision. It features a high-definition camera and a tilting monitor, allowing users to magnify and view printed text, photos, and objects with clarity. Its adjustable arm and versatile viewing modes make it ideal for libraries, schools, and public spaces that want to support accessible reading and learning.
NanoPac’s Commitment to Support
We had the chance to catch up with Laurel when she encountered a small issue with the ONYX and reached out to NanoPac for help. She sent an email and within 10 minutes, received a call from a technician who walked her through a quick solution. The fix turned out to be simple, but she appreciated the speed and kindness of the support.
“Pat was great,” she said. “He made sure I didn’t feel silly and helped me right away. That kind of service really stands out.” (Laurel Marlatt)
This kind of personal, timely support is part of our ongoing mission to be there for our customers with reliable, friendly service that makes a difference.
