Reading Magnification and Audio Assistive Software Training Available at Select NJ Public Libraries
Trenton, NJ, November 5, 2015 – The New Jersey State Library and the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) have joined forces to launch the Library Equal Access Program (LEAP), an initiative that will offer beginner level assistive technology software training for New Jersey residents at select public libraries across the state.
The LEAP program, sponsored by CBVI, targets adults 55 years of age and older, and will provide basic computer skills training on how to use assistive software, such as magnification and audio reading tools, to help vision impaired users with reading websites, emails and other documents. Training will also include an introduction to using assistive technology features now available on iPads.
LEAP represents a unique partnership between CBVI, the New Jersey State Library’s Talking Book & Braille Center (TBBC), Advancing Opportunities, and three selected public libraries in New Jersey: Atlantic County Library at Mays Landing, East Brunswick Public Library, and South Orange Public Library. Classes will begin in mid-November at these three public library locations, where computers and iPads equipped with assistive software have been installed. Training will be delivered by the Assistive Technology Services program of Advancing Opportunities, a leading provider of disability services in New Jersey.
“The ultimate goal of the LEAP program is to promote independence and to remove the digital divide for older adults with vision impairments,” said Dan Frye, executive director of CBVI. “LEAP places state-of-the-art technology and training in public libraries to serve people closer to where they live. These classes for those new to iPads or assistive software will expand skills and opportunities.”
“Public libraries are learning centers for new technology,” said Adam Szczepaniak, deputy state librarian and director of TBBC. “This partnership boosts that level of learning to include not only assistive software for those with vision impairments, but training, as well, which is much needed by those who need a better way to read.”
Fred Tchang, director of Assistive Technology Services at Advancing Opportunities, noted “there are many people who need assistance learning how to use an iPad, and who need help browsing the internet because their vision is changing. This unique partnership gives older clients with vision impairments the support they need to succeed in learning new technology.”
For more information and to register, contact Advancing Opportunities, Assistive Technology Services, at 888-322-1918, ext. 595.
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About the New Jersey State Library
The New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State College, connects people with information and resources through its service to libraries, government and people including those with special needs. The State Library’s mission has expanded since its establishment in 1796 to lead in the provision, promotion and support of high quality library and information services to all the people of New Jersey. Led by State Librarian Mary Chute, the State Library coordinates, promotes and funds the New Jersey Library Network by providing advisory and technical information and services to support New Jersey’s libraries in the fulfillment of their missions. The State Library also provides support for public, school, academic, and special libraries, and continues to promote services for learners of all ages, including key areas of continuing need such as digital literacy, business outreach, workforce development, and summer reading programs. The State Library continues its focus on innovation and future trends, and seeks out exemplary models and technologies that can help assist the New Jersey library community in remaining relevant and essential community anchors. For more information, visit www.njstatelib.org.
About the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
The mission of the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to promote and provide services in the areas of education, employment, independence and eye health through informed choice and partnership with persons who are blind or vision impaired, their families and the community. CBVI was created by the State Legislature in 1910 and has several offices and facilities throughout the state. CBVI works to provide and/or ensure access to services that will enable people who are blind or vision impaired to obtain their fullest measure of self-reliance and improved quality of life. CBVI also seeks to assure that people who are blind or vision impaired are treated as dignified and worthy individuals who are fully engaged in their communities, on equal footing with their sighted peers. For more information, visit http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/home/index.html
About Advancing Opportunities
A leader in the disability services field, Advancing Opportunities has been providing person-centered, community-based services to people with all types of disabilities and their families since 1950. In addition to assistive technology services, the agency provides family support services, advocacy, residential programs, respite care, substance abuse prevention education, and community education and transition services throughout the state. For more information about Advancing Opportunities visit www.advopps.org or call 1-888-322-1918. To see the ways assistive technology can help people with disabilities, visit www.assistivetechnologycenter.org.
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