Assistive Technology

Assistive or adaptive technology and equipment are available at every Baltimore County Public Library branch.

All public computer workstations have: 

  • A large screen monitor
  • Fusion Professional Magnification and Screen Reader software, which includes: 
    • Job Access With Speech (JAWS): Screen reader software that speaks and reads websites, word processed documents, databases, email messages and more 
    • ZoomText: Software for enlarging text 
  • FSReader: Software for accessing Digital Accessible Information System (DAISY) materials 

The following items are available on a first-come, first-served basis at each branch’s Service Desk:

  • Accessible keyboard with large-print, high-contrast keys 
  • Optelec, a text and image magnification system 
  • Magnifying glass, a convex lens mounted in a frame with a handle

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities who are planning on holding or attending a program or event will be provided upon request. Please notify the branch holding the event 10 working days prior.

Hearing and Speech Impairment Resources

Deaf or hearing or speech impaired customers and TTY users can reach any of our branches and the Administrative Office through Maryland Relay.

Books and DVDs are available for an adult or child to learn American Sign Language.

Vision Impairment Resources

For optimal viewing of this website, you can adjust the contrast using the slide button in the footer on any page. 

The library has a collection of Braille picture books for preschool children. They can be used by a sighted child who is learning to read assisted by a blind parent or by a blind child who is learning Braille.

Materials available in large print include large-print books and digital e-books and e-magazines that allow the reader to change the font size and other display settings. Audiobooks are available on CD and Playaways as well as in downloadable format.

InfoEyes

InfoEyes is a question and answer email service for people with a visual impairment or other print limitation. Librarians from the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD) provide the service.