WKU News

The Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex will start off the month of August by opening the WHAS augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) lending library for the community to use. AACs are used by people of all ages when they have difficulties with speech or language skills. Some individuals may use the devices for their entire lives, while others might only need it temporarily, such as during recovery from surgery. They are categorized into two types: unaided communication, which includes gestures and sign language, and aided communication, which involves tools like no-tech visual communication picture books, mid-tech switch-activated recording devices, or high-tech dynamic speech-generating devices.

This AAC lending library is provided by a generous grant from the WHAS Crusade of Children. It offers a diverse selection of over 100 resources to support individuals with communication needs. The library features a variety of high-tech speech-generating devices, including dedicated devices and tablet-based systems that come preloaded with popular AAC communication apps. Additionally, there are low-tech options available, such as communication boards, picture systems, vocabulary boards, and visual schedules. The library also provides access tools like switches for users with physical disabilities, as well as books and adaptive toys. Families can check out AAC devices, training videos, and handouts for up to two weeks as they learn to use the tools or determine which option best fits their needs.

“The WHAS Crusade for Children AAC Lending Library is a fantastic resource for the Bowling Green community. It provides parents, caregivers, students, and clients with valuable experiences and knowledge about the possibilities of using assistive technology. This library is an essential and a much-needed asset for our community and this region of Kentucky,” says Leisa Hutchison, parent of an AAC user.

In addition, WKU students in fields like nursing, education, communication disorders, and social work are also encouraged to explore the library to gain hands-on experience with a variety of AAC technologies. WKU professors who train professionals to work with individuals who use AAC devices can add a trip to the WHAS Lending Library into their coursework.

If you are interested in visiting the WHAS Crusade for Children AAC Lending Library or exploring one of the library's available AAC systems or resources, please contact the front desk of the Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex (SVCEC) at 270-745-4232 to schedule your visit. Caroline Alexander Hudson, a speech-language pathologist, is eager to assist library visitors in understanding the benefits of AAC and to help them feel more comfortable using these systems. The SVCEC is located at 104 Alumni Avenue, between Adams and Kentucky Streets in Bowling Green, KY. It is situated on the north side of campus, at the bottom of the hill from Van Meter Auditorium, and next to the Martens Alumni Center.