A range of assistive technology, including Zoom Text, Jaws, Kurzweil, ScannAR and My Reader have been introduced by Leitrim County Libraries, providing greater access to the library services for people who are blind and vision impaired.
Leitrim County Library are committed to providing ease of access to all, and attempt to ensure that the libraries are as accessible as possible and that all the facilities can be utilised, regardless of disability.
Zoom Text and Jaws are computer packages used to assist people with low or no vision when using a computer. Kurzweil is a computer programme linked to a scanner. It works by placing an item on the scanner and the computer will read it back to you.
ScannAR scans an item and reads it back to you. It is not connected to a computer.
My Reader magnifies text. Simply place a book or other text on the plate and it appears on the screen and can be magnified to the user’s own settings.
Zoom Text, Jaws and Kurzweil are available in Carrick-on-Shannon and Manorhamilton libraries, while ScannAR and My Reader are currently available in Carrick-on-Shannon, Manorhamilton, Ballinamore, Drumshanbo and Mohill libraries. All are welcome to drop in to find out more.
Open days
A number of open days will be held during August to demonstrate the technology, with Martin Beirne on hand to answer any quesitons you might have.
- Ballinamore Library:27th August. Seamus Brett from NCBI will attend the Ballinamore open day to talk about NCBI’s services.
- Drumshanbo Library: 29th August.
- Manorhamilton Library: 30th August.
For more information contact Martin Beirne, Ballinamore Library, Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim or call 071 9645582.