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Frequently Asked Questions from the Community

We often receive information requests on a popular topic, or one that may be pertinent to other patrons. The Questions from the Community below may have just the answer you're looking for! Each article is based on a real question we received from a patron and includes brief answers sourced from reliable, trusted sources and links to learn more. If your question is not answered here, please send us a request and we'll answer within one business day. You might also try our toll-free information line or chat program to speak directly with an information specialist.

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Can I get a computer?

We recognize that access to a computer or tablet is increasingly essential for education, employment, and community participation. While the cost of information technology has come down, it can still be an expensive purchase.

For general computing, we recommend contacting 211 and your local library. Both may be able to help you find ways to acquire a computer in your area. Local libraries may also have computers available for public use within the library, including access to printers, and can assist patrons in signing in to online services.

Depression: Do you know the signs?

Depression is a common mood disorder that can cause severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities such as sleeping, eating, or working. As many as 15 million adults in the US experienced a depressive episode in 2014, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Studies have shown that some people with disabilities or chronic conditions may be at higher risk for depression, compared to those without disabilities. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of depression, so you or your loved one can get the help and support needed.

Does NIDILRR make grants to students? If not, who does?

The National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) does not fund individual grants to students for the purpose of college or graduate level education. We recommend the following resources to find grants, scholarships, and benefits which you may help you finance your education:

How do I get a NIDILRR grant?

The National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) funds approximately 250 projects each year, ranging from individual Switzer Research Fellowships to multi-year Model Systems. With the exception of the Switzer Fellowships, grants are given to institutions and organizations such as universities, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and small companies.

How to Dissect a Journal Article

Here at NARIC, we add about 80 items to our collection each month, and most of these are peer-reviewed research articles from major journals in the field. Scientific research articles may seem daunting to read: They may be long, use technical wording, or contain complex tables and graphs. However, by breaking down a research article into its parts, you may find it easier to understand the main points of the article. Here is a breakdown of how most research articles are organized: