Libraries and Accessibility

Assistive Technology (AT), sometimes also called Adaptive Technology, is used by individuals with disabilities in order to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible.

• Cornell University has an informative article on Assistive Technology, Accommodations and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Each November, TechACCESS of RI hosts the Assistive Technology Conference of New England in Warwick, RI, with information and demonstrations about the latest state-of-the-art assistive technologies.

The operating of systems of most computers and mobile devices (smartphones and tablets) offer built-in accessibility features and assistive technology for users.  The links below provide an introduction to each platform's native assistive technology.

• Android Accessibility - Highlights the accessibility features available on devices using the Android operating system.
• Apple Accessibility - Overview of accessibility features available on Apple computers, iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. 
• Windows Accessibility - Lists accessibility features on the Windows 11 operating system for computers.  

• The Connecticut Tech Act Project (CTTAP) operates out of the CT Department of Aging and Disability Services. Helps people with disabilities, family members, employers, educators and other professionals with access to Assistive Technology devices and services.
• Oak Hill Assistive Technology in Hartford offers a wide variety of Assistive Technology equipment and services.
• United Cerebral Palsy of Eastern Connecticut (UCP) offers assistive technology programs to support people with disabilities in Connecticut as well as training to workplaces in CT. Also check out their lending library of AT.
• The Western Connecticut Area on Aging focuses on increasing access and awareness of assistive devices to reduce or remove barriers and increase independence. They offer free group demonstrations on assistive devices.
• TechACCESS of RI, located in Warwick, RI, offers similar services as well as an annual conference.

For solutions for patrons with low vision or blindness, try these companies:

• New England Low Vision and Blindness offers products (including some "pre-owned" equipment) and training.
• Apple Retail Stores in Danbury, Farmington, Greenwich, New Haven, Norwalk, South Windsor, and Trumbull offer workshops and hands-on opportunities to use iPads and apps.

Online Resources

• School Health (formerly EnableMart) offers more than 3,000 assistive devices as well as extensive support.
• Freedom Scientific offers products for Low Vision and Blindness.
• Optelec sells "Low Vision Essentials."
• Bookshare offers an accessible online library for people with print disabilities. Books are free for students and low-cost for other readers.
• REHAdapt sells all kinds of mounting systems and stands for mobile devices.
• Read&Write software from TextHelp Inc. is an "easy-to-use literacy software [that] builds confidence and independence in individuals of all ages and abilities." It's also useful for English Language Learners.

Mobile Apps

Apps to help with reading

• Voice Dream Reader
• Read2Go
• vBookz
• Change Dyslexia - for Spanish speakers
• Immersive Reader
• Learning Ally
• Overdrive
• iBooks

Apps to help with blind/low vision

• KNFB Reader
• Braille Tutor
• SuperVision+ Magnifier
• Be My Eyes
• Currency Readers

Apps to help with hearing

• Ear Agent
• Ultimate Volume Booster