Use PolyTalk

PolyTalk Database

The PolyTalk database is available to registered staff of Illinois libraries. Currently, there are over 75 interpreters who speak one or more of 25 different languages participating in PolyTalk. These volunteers are willing to assist library staff and patrons by providing real-time, telephone-based interpretation when library staff call.

To use PolyTalk, library staff must register themselves for a PolyTalk Library Staff Account in the PolyTalk Database. 

Once your registration is complete, you may log in to the database https://my.polytalk.info with your username, usually your full email address, and password to search for a volunteer interpreter.

The first page that appears after you log in to the database will give you several search options. Each language you choose will give you a list of interpreters. You can access the interpreter's phone number by clicking on the telephone icon in the record. You will have access to the interpreter’s personal contact information. Please do not give this information to the patron.

After you finish helping the patron, please leave feedback on the interpretation session in the database. If you close the database before submitting feedback, you can find the record of your call in the “Library Sessions” menu option.

Those who would like to volunteer as interpreters can register themselves for an Interpreter Account in the database, as well. After the account is approved, library staff will be able to contact you during the times you list yourself as available in the sign-up form. After each interpretation session, volunteers should log in to the database to leave feedback. This feedback is restricted to PolyTalk staff. Interpreters are encouraged to update their availability and contact information frequently.

Please review the help page or contact PolyTalk if you have any questions.