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Technology at library assists the vision impaired use computers, surf the Internet

Date: 1/30/2015


CHICOPEE – Having a vision problem doesn’t necessarily mean a person can’t cruise the Internet or use a computer thanks to the programs at the Chicopee Public Library.

The library is continuing its computer lab programs designed for people with vision loss, Anne E. Gancarz, Community Services Librarian, explained.  There is an open lab from 3 to 5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. The next dates are Feb. 3, March 3 and April 7.  

Gancarz said that Chicopee resident Robert Baran encouraged the library to obtain the necessary computer programs that would open up the Internet to the vision-impaired. Through successful grant applications, seven of the computers in the library are now equipped with several key programs.

Baran is the Assistive Technology Specialist at Holyoke Community College, where he researches new technology and instructs students in its use.  He is also the president of the National Federation of the Blind of Greater Springfield and the recipient of a number of regional awards for service.  

Gancarz demonstrated that JAWS is a screen-reading program. A library patron can go to a website and the program will read aloud its contents. By wearing headphones, the patron can use the Internet without bothering other people.

The MAGic screen magnification software takes any website and will magnify it to accommodate a vision problems. It can increase the size of a page by 12 times.

The TypeAbility typing tutorial is designed to help anyone learn to type, but it can be combined with JAWS so a person with a vision issue can learn to type. 

Gancarz pointed out another feature: a computer with the typing program also has OpenBook, a program that allows a person to out a document or a book in a scanner and then JAWS will “read” it aloud.

That workstation is on a special table that will raise and lower, which Gancarz noted it deal for people who use wheelchairs or prefer standing.

She said that between five to 12 people regularly use these services at the library and said the people interested in learning more should call 594-1800 ext.108 for information.