Telephone Interpreter
Multnomah County Library has contracted with IRCO (Immigrant & Refugee Community Organization) to provide on-demand telephone interpretation you can use to communicate with patrons who don't speak English.
- Download a card with script in available languages so the patron can point to the language they speak
- Download a quick reference guide to using the telephone interpreter
- View (and print if you like) AS Telephone Interpreter Instructions (for when a patron calls in on the phone and needs an interpreter)
Video Remote Interpretation
Some branches are equipped with access to a live video interpretation service, including sign language interpreters (not captioning). See the video below for an overview. For more information, see the Virtual Remote Interpretation (VRI) page.
Sign Language Interpreter Services
American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are available for events, programs and other library services. Sign Language interpreters are typically booked through the vendor IRCO. If IRCO is unable to provide the requested service, you can also use Passport to Language. Both vendors have a 2 hour minimum for in-person ASL interpreters. Other sign languages may be supported, ask when requesting the service. For more on sign language and captioning as a service, see the Disability Accommodation Group's Sign Language Interpreters page.
Services from IRCO or Passports to Languages may be requested by phone or email -see below for contact information. The cost center is 805000.
If you have questions or need assistance, contact the Contact Center or Lisa Emery in Business Services at lisae@multco.us.
Sign Language Interpreter Vendors
IRCO International Language Bank
Services provided: Onsite/In-person, telephonic, and American Sign Language interpretation
To request services call: (503) 505-5187 - over-the-phone and virtual
Library Access Code: 80-50-00
To schedule onsite & in-person services call or email:
(503) 234-0068
interpretation@ircoilb.org
Passport to Languages
Services provided: Onsite/In-person, telephonic, and American Sign Language interpretation
Must have at least 72 hours notice prior to appointment
To request services call: 1-866-533-4998
You can also request services via their website at: www.passporttolanguages.com/
General Access Code: 400577
To schedule onsite & in-person services call or email:
(503) 297-2707
multnomah@passporttolanguages.com
Other Language Resources
- Google Translate is the most popular site for translation. It is regularly updated to improve the quality of its translations.
- Mango Languages is one of the most popular commercial language learning sites, but access it from our library's catalog to use it for free with your library card number.