Services

In addition to the collections to which we provide access, the WLBPD @ AADL offers a variety of services. For more information on the services provided by AADL to all, take a look at the Services page at aadl.org.

Assistive Technologies

  • All internet browsers on AADL computers feature a function allowing the user to make the type larger:

  • Microsoft Internet Explorer Expand text size by holding down the control key and hitting the +. Or select "View" and "Text Size" from the menu bar.

  • Mozilla Firefox Expand text size by holding down the control key and hitting the +. Or select "View" and "Text Size" from the menu bar.

  • Handheld Magnifiers Each AADL information desk has a collection of magnifiers for use within the library.

Assistive Technologies Lab

In the Assistive Technology Lab on the West side of the 2nd floor of the Downtown Library, you will find the following equipment located on adjustable elevator tables:

  • Kurzweil 1000 scanning station Kurzweil 1000 text-to-speech software is available for use with the scanner and Braille embosser. Patrons can use this station to translate scanned and digital text to sound files or Braille with the output being a printed document or a sound file. The Braille embosser can print two-sided documents and is printed in a manner that documents can be easily bound. Patrons are encouraged to bring in their own headphones but headphones are also available for sale at the Circulation Desk.

  • JAWS JAWS screen reading software is available on a PC in the Assistive Technology Lab. This PC also has a Braille display unit.

    In addition, all public computing stations at all AADL locations can be set to JAWS mode. Please ask Information Desk if you need assistance setting a computer to JAWS mode. Patrons are encouraged to bring in their own headphones but headphones are also available for sale at the Circulation Desks.

  • Closed-Circuit Reader Patrons can use a new closed-circuit television system to magnify print materials in either color or black & white mode. The CCTV is situated between the JAWS station and the Mac so that patrons may use it while also using a computer. Patrons are free to use this with personal or library materials.

  • Mac A Mac is available with a large monitor for ease of viewing.

Assistive Technology Training

One-on-one assistive technology training is available in the Assistive Technology Lab on both a walk-in basis at the Downtown AADL on Tuesdays from 2-6pm, and also by appointment by calling (734) 327-4224.

Need a Ride?

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Now there's RideConnect, a new transportation coordination center serving Washtenaw County residents. Sponsored by Western Washtenaw Area Value Express or WAVE, the Washtenaw Area Transportation Study or WATS; People's Express, Washtenaw County, and Ann Arbor Transportation Authority, RideConnect also coordinates services among existing public, private, and non-profit transportation as well as county human service agencies.

Assistive Technology at AADL

The Downtown Library has a new dedicated area of assistive technology devices that are available for anyone with a visual or learning disability, including a Kurzweil 1000 scanning station and JAWS text-to-speech software, a Braille embosser, a closed circuit reader and magnifiers at all public desks. Public computers at Malletts Creek, Traverwood, West and Downtown Youth have JAWS, and a function that enlarges type is on all public computers. Assistive technology trainer, Nick Wilcox, is ready to help walk-in patrons on the second floor at the Downtown Library from 2-6pm on Tuesdays or by requesting an appointment at WLBPD: 734-327-4224.