Blind, Visually-Impaired Get Help Using Technology

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ—East Brunswick Public Library (2 Jean Walling Civic Center) holds a ribbon cutting ceremony to open a new assistive technology learning center for those with changes in their vision on September 21 at 11 am.

Through a partnership between the library, the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI), and the New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center, the Library Equal Access Program (LEAP) introduces adults (55 years and older) with a change in vision to new helpful computer and iPad technology with magnification and speech.

“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.”

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LEAP has placed computers and iPads at East Brunswick Public Library and is offering free training. Specially designed for beginners (ages 55 and older) with changes in vision. Topics covered include sending email, reading documents and browsing the internet.

“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.”

Training is provided by Advancing Opportunities, a leading provider of assistive technology in New Jersey. To register for these free classes, call Advancing Opportunities at 888-322-1918, extension 595. A complete list of schedules can be found on the library’s website www.ebpl.org.