[bcab] Re: Public libraires - Accessibility software

Hi, the problem here is that unless people know how to get much use out of 
the screen reader, they won't really benefit that much, and if they do know 
a screen reader, they probably already have that one.Also, the way the 
internet is developing, you can't really afford to be out of date. Even 
screen readers 1 version out of date are really struggling with a lot of the 
dynamic content there is now.

Views on what the best screen reader is will be personal, and people who are 
used to one wil struggle to get much use out of another unless they know 
both intimately as all the philosophies behind them and command structures 
are so different.

I would also suggest that you should look at the issue of screen reading, 
and the issue of magnification separately, and try to do the best for your 
users of each category, which may not mean going for SuperNova just because 
it does both, but whichever you go for, it should be kept up to date at all 
times!

So I suppose for public computers, the question is which screen reader can 
people make most use of even if they don't know it? Personally, I think Jaws 
is the best bet there, but I know others will disagree. I suspect it's down 
to what you feel really though, and it's better to try something than 
nothing.

Cheers
Dave


--------------------------------------------------
From: <anne.cullen@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2008 3:31 PM
To: <bcab@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: [bcab] Public libraires - Accessibility software

Hi folks,

I wonder if anyone can help with this one....?

Kent Libraries and Archives will be updating their management information 
systems in 2009, which includes our web catalogue .

We currently have Supernova software on pcs for public use in libraries 
themselves and we are currently evaluating current and past usage. Most 
customers use library pcs for internet and e-mail.

We are considering whether we upgrade Supervova next year and what other 
software options are now available which will make the system and our pcs as 
accessible as possible.

We are working with local people and organisations, (e.g Kent  Association 
for the Blind) ,looking at what other libraries have done and may commission 
an audit by Abilitynet.

Does anyone know of any recent evaluative studies that may help inform our 
decision or do you have personal experience or professional expertise you 
can share with us?

All feedback gratefully received!

Many thanks


Anne

Anne Cullen
Equality and Diversity Manager
KAES and Libraries and Archives
KAES Head Office
College Road
Sittingbourne
Kent
ME10 1LF

Tel: 01795 415900
Mobile: 07795 293100
Fax: 01795 435493





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