Maryland Libraries Provide Accessibility on Public Computers
Libraries break down barriers to computer access for blind and print disabled patrons
Baltimore, MD — The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled under the direction of the Maryland State Library Agency, worked with leading assistive technology company Vispero to provide Freedom Scientific’s Fusion software licenses for installation in public libraries across the state. Now, any customer can walk into a participating library and access the Internet and office productivity tools on any public computer.
The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled provides accessible reading services to those unable to access traditional print. As part of that mission, the library has worked with public libraries to provide Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant computer workstations in every county. Providing a license for each computer station removes the barrier of a single designated station and allows customers to go to any computer in the library.
Fusion bundles two industry-leading software programs – the JAWS® screen reader and the ZoomText magnifier/reader – to enable library customers who are blind, low vision or print disabled to navigate the computer, the Internet, office productivity tools, and computer programs to achieve their personal goals.
The licenses were made possible by Library Services and Technology Act funding through the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
If a customer does need help, public library staff have been trained and are able to assist customers who want to explore more of what they can do at the library.
Library systems that currently have the licenses in place include:
- Anne Arundel County
- Calvert County
- Caroline County
- Charles County
- Queen Anne’s County
- Somerset County
- Talbot County
- Wicomico County
- Worcester County
The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled encourages customers to visit their local public library branches and engage with these resources. Keep up to date as more libraries add this valuable service by visiting MSLA’s website at https://marylandlibraries.org.
For additional information, contact:
Ashley Biggs/Marketing & Outreach Librarian
(667) 209-1563 | (410) 230-2430
ashley.biggs1@maryland.gov
About the Maryland State Library Agency (MSLA)
As the state library agency for Maryland, MSLA administers state and federal funds tosupport Maryland libraries in their mission to offer outstanding resources, programs, and excellent customer service. The State Library Resource Center, located in the central branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, serves as Maryland’s state library. MSLA has oversight of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled; Maryland’s Public Libraries; the State Library Network including the three regional libraries; the Library Capital Grants Programs; and the Deaf Culture Digital Library.
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