Assistive Technology: Technology Made Easy

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    Assitive Technology: Technology Made Easy

    As technology becomes more sophisticated in its performance and development, libraries have been a leader introducing new technology to its users. Libraries have served a critical role introducing new technology to library patrons. One way that libraries achieve this is by providing and teaching how to use assistive technology to patrons with disabilities. As defined by the New York State Education Department, “[a]n assistive technology device is any item, piece of equipment, or product system . . . that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of students with a disability" (NY Education Dept). These types of devices help bridge any accessibility issues towards digital literacy

    The Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC) at the New Jersey State Library (NJSL) has offers assistive technology classes that helps readers magnify text on computer screens and how to utilize accessibility features on the iPad (Marcotte). Deputy State librarian states, “These initiatives help boost that level of learning to include not only assistive software for those with vision impairments but training as well” (Marcotte). Public libraries have served a critical role teaching technological skills to its patrons.

    It’s fascinating to see how knowledgable library staff have to be in order to teach how to use technology. I find it important to meet this need for library users, especially at the rapid pace technology develops. This skill is going to be vital in order to help bridge the digital divide for library users, especially so for users that require assistive technology.



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Works Cited

Marcotte, Alison. "Bringing Assistive Technology to Patrons: Libraries and state agencies team up to offer training for patrons with visual impairments." American Libraries. https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2017/01/03/bringing-assistive-technology-to-patrons/.

"Education Design & Technology - Assitive Technology." NY Education Dept. https://www.nysed.gov/edtech/assistive-technology-0

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