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Assistive Technology and Equipment

PC Workstations 

All library PCs come with:  

  • a built-in narrator 

  • magnifier 

  • high contrast options 

  • closed captioning 

  • reading and writing software that allows users to scan a document and have it read aloud 

  • StickyKeys 

Assistive Technology Workstations 

Every Ottawa Public Library (OPL) branch is equipped with an assistive technology workstation. These provide additional equipment and features to help clients with various types of disabilities. All assistive technology workstations include: 

  • Accessible keyboards 

  • StickyKeys 

  • Trackball mice 

  • 23” touchscreen monitors 

  • Height-adjustable tables 

  • Scanners with Presto! PageManager software 

Other assistive technology features that are available at OPL include: 

  • Victor Readers (also known as DAISY players)   

  • Assistive Listening Devices   

  • Video Magnifiers    

How to Book a Personal Computer or Accessible Workstation?

You can book time at a personal computer or accessible workstation at by: 

  • Reserving a timeslot on our Online Booking System  

  • Visiting a library branch or Bookmobile stop  

  • Calling InfoService at 613-580-2940  

Note: Bring a CD-RW or flash drive (USB) to save your work.  Don't forget to bring headphones with a microphone attachment, if needed! 
 
Library branches offer USB sticks and earbud headphones for sale.  

Accessible Technologies and Features 

Accessible Keyboards 

Accessible workstations feature an accessible keyboard with a black typeface on yellow keys.

Accessible Keyboard with enlarged view of the yellow keys

StickyKeys 

StickyKeys allows users to execute key combinations one at a time. For example, when a shortcut requires a key combination, such as CTRL+P, StickyKeys will enable the user to press one key at a time instead of pressing them simultaneously. This feature is available on all public computer stations and assistive technology workstations by hitting the shift key five times in a row. 

Trackball Mouse 

A trackball mouse is designed for precise control and ease of use, featuring large buttons for effortless clicking.  

Trackball mouse

Presto!PageManager Software

We provide Presto!PageManager software on our scanners. This software: 

  • allows easy document scanning and organization into various formats, including PDF 

  • has an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) function. OCR converts images of text into machine-readable format. This allows individuals with visual impairments to access and interact with printed materials through screen readers and other assistive technologies. 

Assistive Listening Devices 

Assistive Listening Devices are portable devices used to amplify sound for people who are hard of hearing. Clients can borrow these devices for events, meetings, and programs that take place at OPL. They are available in all branches. 

Victor Readers (also known as DAISY players) 

The Victor Reader is a digital audio player, and DAISY is a format designed specifically for people with print disabilities. Our Victor readers play DAISY formats, MP3 books, and music on CDs. These readers have self-voicing controls that allow listeners to jump from page to page while listening to an audiobook and bookmark specific pages. Clients with a print disability can borrow these devices. Speak to library staff in person, or contact us to register for this service. 

Victor Reader

Video Magnifiers  

Video magnifiers are only available at OPL’s Main branch. Video Magnifiers offer an enlarged image intended for individuals with limited eyesight. 

Video magnifier