Submitted by Daria Drobny
Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, Detroit, MI
Access to emerging technologies is critical to a level playing field in the modern world. The purpose of this poster is to share information about how libraries can make the world of information technology more accessible. An elevator or ramp provides access to spaces when a staircase presents an obstacle for someone who uses a wheelchair. Without assistive technology, computers in libraries pose a similar challenge. Libraries play an increasingly important role in ensuring access to computer and Internet technology for all people. Assistive technology and universal design, which involves designing your services and facility for people with varying abilities, can help achieve accessibility. For people without disabilities, technology makes things convenient; for people with disabilities, it makes things possible.
What is so special about assistive technology?
- There is technology that magnifies. Magnifying text and images provides access to computers and information to persons with low vision. Modifications include: selecting the largest font, affixing a magnifier that fits over computer screen and installing software such as ZoomText or VisAbility.
- There is technology that reads. Screen readers convert text on the monitor to speech. Screen-reading software such as Jaws or Window Eyes can be expensive and difficult to use. Dedicate one library staff member and/or partner with therapist to become expert users.
- There is technology that provides an alternative keyboard. People with low vision or mobility challenges (spasticity) will need a different keyboard. These are bigger than normal and have large keys with large letters. Keyboards designed for people with movement disorders, such as IntelliKeys, plug into most computers. Special setup overlays allow you to customize the response or repeat rate for individuals who tend to press unwanted keys or keep their finger on a key too long.
- There is technology that allows you to use your voice to create documents, surf the Web and use other applications. Voice-recognition software can assist individuals with visual or mobility challenges. Programs such as Dragon Naturally Speaking allow users to dictate commands to the computer to open programs, operate the PC, create documents and more.
- There is technology to assist those with limited or no hand function or mouse challenges. A visually impaired person can't see where the cursor is on the screen but can become familiar with keystroke commands. For those with mobility problems, there are large mice, large track balls, a head mouse, joystick and other options.
People with disabilities tend to be without access to computers. This is where the library can assist in bridging the gap of the digital divide. Inability to own or operate a computer can limit career advancement, impede job searching, pose difficulty in college and make it impossible to find consumer health information. In each case, libraries can help overcome these challenges by providing universal access to the facility and employing accessible technologies.