Readers with Visual Impairments Benefit from Library’s Assistive Technology
A scanner, magnifiers and specialized software among resources available to Des Plaines library patrons.
Des Plaines Public Library. The library was designed by Lohan Associates architects.
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This week’s column was submitted by Bob Blanchard, reference librarian at the Des Plaines Public Library.
Seeing well enough to read may be a challenge for some people with visual impairments. Des Plaines Public Library, however, has special technology to help them continue to enjoy the printed word.
The library offers:
- A machine that scans print material and reads it aloud.
- Image-magnifying machines.
- Computers with specialized software.
Assistive technology is the formal name for any item, piece of equipment or computer software that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities.
Earlier: Wolves player to visit Des Plaines Library on Jan. 10.
A scanning and reading appliance, also known as SARA, located in the fourth-floor computer lab, scans print material and reads it out loud. An attached computer monitor simultaneously shows the words SARA is reading. It is primarily used by patrons with limited vision, but the machine also may benefit people with dyslexia or reading disabilities and those learning a new language.
Large image-magnifying machines, also known as Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs), are on the library’s third and fourth floors. Library patrons may check out certain CCTVs for eight weeks. Some portable magnifiers are also available for borrowing the same length of time.
Two specialized computer programs are installed on some of the library’s computers: JAWS, which reads aloud words on a computer screen, and MAGic with Speech, which enlarges images on a computer screen and also reads text out loud.
For people who prefer to listen to books, the library has Playaways, tiny audio players loaded with complete titles, as well as books on compact disc. Patrons also may download a large selection of audiobooks from the library onto their own computer, MP3 player, tablet, smartphone and many other devices.
If you have questions or need more information about the library’s assistive technology, contact reference librarian Bob Blanchard at (847) 376-2793 or bblanchard@dppl.org.
Tell us what you think.
Tell us in the comments.
valerie C
9:01 am on Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Hi Bob: Love the services the public libraries provide! You'll also want to check out an online library called Bookshare (www.bookshare.org). It has over 135,000 accessible books and textbooks free for U.S. students with print disabilities, funded by tax dollars. Check it out! Val