In 2015, we were awarded an LSTA grant to improve service to people with disabilities.
With the assistance of Ellen Hall and Joann Becker from Perkins Solutions, we purchased and installed install several assistive technology devices which will be of interest to people who are blind or have low vision. These are available for use in the library, and they’re a great chance to try before you buy if you’re thinking of investing in technology for your home.
iSee
The new equipment includes an iSee, a high definition video magnifier. In the photo below, we’ve used an atlas for demonstration purposes, but you can use it toread a book or magazine, or to get a better look at photos of your grandchildren. Because it uses video technology, you could to write a letter or even to untangle a knot in your knitting! It allows you to change magnification, contrast and brightness or color to get the best possible image for you.
iReader
Another new device is an iReader. With this, you can place any printed material on the surface and the iReader will read it to you. Headphones are provided, or bring your own!
Computer with Kurzweil 1000 and scanner
We’ve also added two new computers. One has Kurzweil 1000, the award-winning text to speech software that makes printed or electronic text readily available to people who are blind or visually impaired. Whether you’re surfing the net, or using the attached scanner to access books, magazine or other printed documents, Kurzweil software combines accessibility, communication and productivity tools to ease and enhance your reading, writing and learning experience.
ZoomText keyboard
A second computer will have ZoomText Fusion, a magnifier which brings a variety of size, contrast, brightness, and color settings to the computer screen. Like iSee, you will be able to adjust the settings so they’re right for you. In addition, ZoomText includes a screen reader, and a large-print keyboard with shortcuts to ZoomText’s many features.
PockeTalker Ultra personal amplifier
Explore 3 handheld electronic magnifier
For assistance on a smaller scale, we have a Pockettalker Ultra assistive hearing device, and a Humanware Explore 3 handheld electronic magnifier, available at the reference desk.
LSTA is administered on the federal level by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in the Commonwealth by the MBLC. More information about LSTA can found at www.mass.gov/mblc.
