The University Of Zimbabwe Library has launched three pilot projects to enable library patrons with visual disabilities.
Virtual Magnifying Glass is a screen magnification tool that can magnify text and images up to 32 times. Library users click on the tool's icon and place the magnifier over any item on the screen to enlarge it. Users can determine the shape and size of the magnified area and the strength of the magnification.
Text-to-speech tool Balabolka is a tool that reads text aloud from the user's computer screen. This tool is intended to aid people who have difficulties with reading due to visual impairments or reading difficulties like dyslexia.
AccessApps is over 60 applications which run from a flash drive ("memory stick"), and provide a range of solutions to support writing, reading and planning that enable people with specific disabilities. For example, there are programs to help you change the background color of your computer screen, or to help you locate the cursor on the screen.
Using a "train the trainer" approach, the University Of Zimbabwe Library staff have been trained in the use of these tools. They will, in turn, assist and train library users who want to use them. The pilots will run from January to April 2011. If the pilot projects are successful, the tools will be made more widely available on public access terminals. Interested in other projects that enable people in developing countries? Check out EIFL, and international non-profit that promotes knowledge sharing to those with physical challenges.
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