Assistive Technologies
Assistive Technology is computer technology for people who have a print disability, or who find operating a computer difficult, maybe even impossible. Mackay Regional Council Libraries has three Assistive Technology spaces. These are located at the Mackay City Library, Gordon White Library and Mirani Library. The facilities provided include:
Software
>Kurzweil 30000 – A Screen Reader software application that reads aloud information displayed on a computer monitor screen.
>Scanned documents are magnified on the screen
>Text is spoken outloud (headphones are used to hear) and tracked on the computer screen by being highlighted on the computer screen
>Connect Outloud – a specialised web browser that simplifies using the Internet. Text is spoken outloud as the cursor is moved through the screen.
Hardware
>19 inch computer monitors to help enlarge the on-screen text and images
>Assistive keyboard with big keys
>Assistive mouse with trackball for people with difficulties using a mouse
>A flatbed scanner and software called OCR (Optical Character Recognition) for inputting printed (hard copy) information into the computer to be read aloud and/or magnified
>Printer access to print documents.
Literacy and numeracy software is available in the library collection. This software can be borrowed by members of Mackay Regional Council Libraries or loaded on to the Assistive Technology computer.
Visual aids
Pocket Viewer
A hand held digital magnifier useful for people with a vision impairment. Available for use in the library at Mackay City and Gordon White Library.
Reading Glasses
If you forget your glasses you can borrow reading glasses of varying strengths for the duration of your library visit.
Magnifying Aids
Customers may prefer to use a magnifying glass or full page magnifier during their library visit.
Accessibility
>All of our library branches, including the mobile library, are wheelchair accessible.
>Mobility aids are available for use in the library at Mackay City Library and Gordon White Library.
>Wheelchair accessible toilets are available at Mackay City and Gordon White Library.
>Baskets and book cart trolleys are available at most library branches.
For further information about these facilities, please contact Mackay City Library or Gordon White Library.