Updated 5/16/2025

People who are hard of hearing or have auditory processing disorder may rely on assistive listening systems when they attend performances, as well as when they attend group discussions. There are a number of systems currently used in and planned for library locations. Assistive Listening Systems help patrons with hearing loss overcome background noise and distance, ensuring they can fully participate in activities and access information. 

Refer to the Assistive listening system user guide for more details and instructions for using our various Assistive Listening Systems. 

Inductive Loops

An inductive loop is a wire loop installed in the floor around the perimeter of the room.  The loop emits a magnetic field that can be picked up by hearing aids or bodypack receivers equipped with a telecoil (T-coil). This loop is connected to the room’s A/V system and will automatically broadcast the audio played by the A/V system.

Available at these locations:

• Holgate
• Midland
• North Portland
• Operations Center

ListenWIFI WiFi

ListenWIFI is a system that transmits audio over WiFi to a patron’s smartphone or a library-provided bodypack receiver. ListenWIFIi is available in several community rooms With A/V systems. ListenWIFI's wireless technology means libraries don't need to have a physical inductive loop, which provides more flexibility to provide high quality audio in different areas without being limited to one specific room. Patrons also have more flexibility by being able to use their own smartphones.  

Will be available at these locations:

• Albina
• Belmont
• East County Library
• Northwest
• St. Johns

ListenTALK Portable

The ListenTALK Portable system is a high quality digital wireless system that is ideal where portability is essential or where there is no other ALS available. This system consists of a transceiver (for the speaker) and receivers (for the listeners) and headphones and neck loops that connect to hearing aids with a telecoil. The system comes in a sturdy case that can be carried around. This portability offers ALS in various spaces as needed without the need for permanent installations like induction loops. It can also be used for small group discussions and meetings such as Pageturners. 

Available at these locations:

• Albina (coming soon)
• Belmont (coming soon)
• East County Library (coming soon)
• Holgate
• Midland
• North Portland
• Northwest (coming soon)
• Operations Center
• St. Johns (coming soon)

Phonak Portable Bluetooth 

The Phonak Portable ALS is very similar to the ListenTALK system. Multnomah County Library has 2 of these portable systems.The entire system is contained in a sturdy case and can be requested for use with your library program or staff meeting. To request the system, please order using the Assistive Listening System on this form at least 48 hours in advance. Place additional instructions in the Comment box near the end of the form.