Two computer workstations at Central Library provide access to library patrons who are blind, have low vision, are deaf, hard of hearing, or have mobility limitations or learning disabilities. The stations include software and assistive technology devices set up for each type of use.

Sign up to use the computers at the Central Library Information Services Desk. Reservations can be made up to a week in advance by calling 414-286-3017. Valid identification is required at the time of use.

Listed are some of the resources available for our patrons who...

are blind or have low vision | are deaf or hard of hearing | have Arthritis |
have tremors | have mobility disabilities | have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Resources available for our patrons who have
learning disabilities or cognitive disabilities.

...are blind or have low vision
*JAWS Professional Edition full-screen reading software program reads aloud information typed in and information already provided on the monitor.

ZoomText Xtra Level 2 increases the magnification size, offers different viewing modes and acts as a limited screen reader.

*Open Book reading software uses a scanner to convert printed material and reads the document aloud.

Aladdin Rainbow Pro Closed-Circuit Television provides increased magnification for print material.

* Training classes for this software are available for our patrons with visual disabilities through the Badger Association of the Blind at 912 N. Hawley Rd. For more information contact Troy Hergert at 414.615.0122, or email thergert@badgerassoc.org.

...are deaf or hard of hearing
Visual cues, instead of auditory prompts, can be turned on with Microsoft's Accessibility options.

...have Arthritis
Micro Mini Keyboard is a small-framed keyboard for persons with a limited range of motion or for one-handed typing.

Smart Cat Touchpad requires only a slight touch of the finger across the surface to move the cursor.

Expert Pro Trackball controls the cursor by using slight finger movements or an open palm with more shoulder movements.

...have tremors
Roller Plus Joystick accommodates hand tremors by counteracting the movements to provide a smooth gliding of the computer cursor.

Big Keys LX Keyboard provides a bigger target area for persons with decreased hand dexterity or motor control.

...have mobility disabilities
Tracker 2000, via infrared technology, tracks a reflective dot placed on the forehead that allows control of the computer cursor by head movement.

Softype On-screen Keyboard is a virtual keyboard software that appears on the computer screen and allows text input by the user who cannot physically access a keyboard.

Jelly Bean Switches are large, soft switches that act as right and left mouse clicks.

Adaptive desk can be adjusted so the library patron can sit or stand at the workstation.

The adjustable chair can also be raised or lowered for comfort.

...have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Maxim Adjustable Keyboard and Optional Numeric Pad allow patrons to set the angle and pitch for more comfortable keyboarding.

Softype On-screen Keyboard and the Smart Cat Touchpad, the Expert Pro Trackball or the Tracker 2000 may also aid patrons with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Learning Disabilities / Cognitive Disabilities
Read & Write Gold software reads aloud text on the screen, provides enhanced spell checking, predicts words the patron tries to type, and checks homonyms for persons with writing composition difficulties.

Kurzweil 3000 converts printed or electronic material into text that is read aloud. It is combined with highlighting features to aid in visual tracking for auditory learners and persons who have difficulty reading.

Provided by Milwaukee Public Library through a grant from the Hewlett-Packard Company in partnership with the American Library Association. Milwaukee Public Library worked in partnership with the Badger Association of the Blind, Audio and Braille Literacy Enhancement - ABLE (formally known as the Volunteer Services for the Visually Handicapped - VSVH), the Wisconsin Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (WRLBPH), the Exceptional Education and Assistive Technology Departments of Milwaukee Public Schools, and Independence First, a local advocate for persons with physical disabilities.