The Library has one assistive technology PC. This computer offers Jaws, Magic, and Kurzweil software and has an attached scanner. Earphones are available at the Service Desk for privacy.
Kurzweil software assists those with visual impairment by allowing users to scan text from a book or other written source, have the text read aloud, and create audio mp3 files of the scanned text. The software speaks text aloud in a variety of natural-sounding voices that can be modified to suit individual preferences. In addition, Kurzweil offers a large collection of classic literature in full-text, which the software can read aloud or use to create audio files. Users of Kurzweil who wish to save files are encouraged to use a flash memory key. All files are erased from the PC when it restarts, so files must be saved to an external source.
JAWS is screen reader software that assists those with visual impairment by working with your PC to provide access to software applications and the Internet. With its internal software speech synthesizer and the computer's sound card, information from the screen is read aloud, allowing users to browse the Internet or use programs such as Microsoft Office. Reading speed can be modified and paused.
Magic software helps people with low vision view information on their computer screen while hearing it through their speech synthesizer. Magic combines state of the art magnification features with a low vision speech option. The software magnifies screen information, from one to 16 times its normal size. Mouse and cursor enhancements help track the location of the mouse pointer and cursor on the screen.
The Library also offers a small collection of audiobooks which are available for 7-day checkout.

