We loan our interpretation equipment to our local community at no charge on a first-come, first-serve basis. Simultaneous interpreters use interpretation equipment to facilitate communication in real time—so a speaker doesn’t have to pause and wait for the interpreter to repeat their message. Our equipment doesn’t include machine translation. We own 46 receivers and 3 transmitters. This means up to 46 people can use the equipment and up to 3 languages can be interpreted simultaneously. Please note: if you borrow equipment, you’re responsible for booking an interpreter.
To request equipment, submit the online request form.
Equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis and at no charge.
Request equipment with at least 3 days’ notice to ensure availability. If you request the equipment with less than 3 days’ notice, we can’t guarantee equipment availability.
If this is your first time borrowing equipment, schedule 30 minutes for your pickup. Town staff will review the equipment responsibilities and instructions with you.
Once you have the equipment, you’re responsible for:
Caring for the equipment. You may not loan it to a third party. Report any damage or malfunctions in the User Checkout Log.
Repairing or replacing damaged equipment and any associated costs.
Returning the equipment to the Town at the agreed date and time. To request a loan extension, please contact us before the return date.
Contact Katelyn Robalino, Language Access Coordinator, at languageservices@townofchapelhill.org or 919-969-5105.