Free Eye and Hearing Screenings for Kids at Baltimore County Libraries

Vision To Learn, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free eye care for children, continues its seventh year of service across Baltimore County Public Library branches. The program offers no-cost eye exams and glasses to individuals 18 and younger, and there’s still time to take advantage before the summer schedule ends.

Children who need glasses based on the initial screening will be examined by a licensed optometrist, then choose from a limited selection of frames. Glasses are ordered and typically delivered within two to three weeks. Families are notified when they arrive. All services, including exams and glasses, are provided free of charge.

Last year, Vision To Learn conducted 384 exams and distributed 244 pairs of glasses to Baltimore County youth. These services are crucial for families who may face barriers to access. Research from Johns Hopkins University has shown that children who receive glasses often see measurable academic gains the following school year.

“As a community connector, we are committed to leveling the playing field for everyone in Baltimore County,” said library CEO Sonia Alcántara-Antoine. “Partnering with Vision To Learn to offer something as essential as eye exams, and potentially glasses, ensures every student starts the school year off with the ability to see and therefore succeed.”

Pre-registration is required due to limited availability, and appointments are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Families can choose their preferred branch and register online. A parent or legal guardian must sign a consent form in advance or on the day of the appointment. Each session takes about 10–15 minutes and includes an eye exam, glasses selection, and cleaning of equipment.

On select days, Baltimore County’s Health Department is also offering free audiology screenings for children ages 3 to 17. These 15–20 minute appointments must also be booked in advance. If your child needs both an eye and ear exam, you must register for each separately.

Below are the remaining Vision To Learn and audiology service dates for Baltimore County libraries. (An asterisk indicates dates when both eye and hearing screenings are available.)

July

• Monday, July 28—Loch Raven Branch
• Tuesday, July 29—Reisterstown Branch*
• Wednesday, July 30—Sollers Point Branch
• Thursday, July 31—North Point Branch*

August

• Monday, August 12 — Cockeysville Branch*
• Thursday, August 14 — Parkville-Carney Branch*
• Thursday, August 14 — Lansdowne Branch
• Friday, August 15 — North Point Branch*
• Tuesday, August 19 — White Marsh Branch*
• Wednesday, August 20 — White Marsh Branch

For more information or to register for an appointment, visit the Baltimore County Public Library website or contact your local branch.

Free Vision And Hearing Screenings Still Available At Baltimore County Libraries  was originally published on wolbbaltimore.com