Accessibility

ADA-Compliant Water Fountains

All MPL branches ensure accessibility with wall-mounted, ADA-compliant water fountains that accommodate both children and adults, offering ample wheelchair access.

Audiobooks & Digital Resources

Access to audiobooks, eBooks, and digital magazines through services like Libby and CloudLibrary. Details on our eBranch at https://mcallenlibrary.net/books-more/e-branch/.

Braille Materials

Braille resources can be requested from other libraries through Interlibrary Loan (ILL). Visit our ILL page online at https://www.mcallenlibrary.net/books-more/interlibrary-loan.

Drive Thru Window

Main Library offers a convenient Drive Thru Window situated on the Northwest side of the building, operating Monday-Friday from 9AM-5PM. Services available include checking out books requested online, providing lawn bags for City of McAllen residents, and accepting item returns.

Drive Up Book Drop

The drive up book drop is located on the north side (Orchid Avenue) of Main Library and is open 24/7. Programmed to receive and automatically check in items, patrons are able to return items without leaving their car.

Electric Mobility Scooters

Recognizing the size of Main Library—the largest single-story library in the nation—MPL provides electric mobility scooters to assist elderly and disabled patrons. These scooters are charged nightly and are available for check-out at the Welcome Desk with a valid ID. 

Facility

Our facilities are designed for ease of access, featuring power assist doors at every entrance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces conveniently located near the front. We’re committed to ensuring that everyone in our community can enjoy our services with comfort and ease.

Large Print Books

At Main Library, we offer a collection of large print books designed to serve patrons with low vision. Each book is printed with an enlarged font and clear layout to enhance readability and comfort. 

On Site, Helpful and Friendly Staff

Staff at service desks are available to assist patrons with searching for and retrieving hard-to-reach items in the stacks and fixing technology issues. If you need assistance, please stop by one of the service desks and we are happy to help.

Orchid Inclusive Playground

The Orchid Inclusive Playground, located near the North Parking Lot at Main Library, is designed for children ages 5-12 and provides a fun, safe, and welcoming space for all abilities. With wheelchair accessibility and thoughtfully design features, the playground ensures every child can play, explore, and enjoy outdoor activities in an inclusive environment.

Service Animals

All MPL branches welcome service animals in all areas.

Texas Talking Book Program

Providing free digital audio, large print and Braille books and magazines to Texas residents of any age with qualifying visual, physical, or reading disabilities that prevent them from reading standard print.  For details, visit www.tsl.texas.gov/tbp/index.html or call 1-800-252-9605.

Video Conferencing

A confidential location to access real-time video conferencing services; offering a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a webcam to aid in users’ virtual or video appointments. Book your session now on the study room reservation system at www.mcallenlibrary.net/spaces/study-rooms/.

Visually Assistive Devices

Main Library offers assistive devices for the visually impaired community, which includes the following equipment at a computer station located in the Computer Lab:

• ZoomText (enlarges computer screen text) and JAWS (a software that reads information on your screen). This software can be used with Microsoft Office programs and our online catalog. The Computer Lab Desk provides assistance or headphones.

• Merlin (a desktop electronic magnifier which enlarges printed materials on a video screen).