Accessible facilities
Collingwood library has a TTY machine available for use for the hearing impaired. Additionally, JAWS and MAGic screen enlarging software is available for the blind and visually impaired.
What is a TTY?
A TTY is a text telephone, which is used for two-way text conversation over a telephone line. These machines originated 'intechnology,' used for teletypewriters and are now known as 'TTY'. They are also known as 'TDD' (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf).
The device 'rings' via flashing and consists of a keyboard, a display screen and a modem. The letters that the TTY user types into the machine are turned into electrical signals that can travel over telephone lines. When the signals reach their destination (in this case another TTY) they are converted back into letters which appear on the display screen.
The libraries TTY number is 9495 6903.
MAGic screen enlarging software
MAGic screen enlarging software magnifies information from two times to sixteen times the original size. Many of our libraries now have larger 17 inch monitors, which are helpful for those with mild vision impairment. Collingwood library also has access to an audio loop available for use.
DAISY players now available at Yarra Libraries
Library members with a print disability* can listen to audio books, magazines and even newspapers with the new Digital Accessible Information Systems (DAISY player) available to borrow from any of Yarra’s libraries.
The DAISY players offer the reader more options than cassette or CD players, with features such as large tactile buttons and simple operation.
They can be used to play the library’s audiobook CDs, including MP3 versions or audio files stored on USB sticks or memory cards.
They are also compatible with Vision Australia’s collection.
DAISY players can be borrowed from any Yarra Libraries branch. Bookings are essential and can be made by contacting Yarra Libraries on 1300 695 427 or yarralibraries@yarracity.vic.gov.au
*A print disability can include blindness or vision impairment, or a physical or perceptual impairment which means that reading a conventional book is not possible.
Further information
Marie Linton
Richmond Library Special Collections and Access Team Leader
9426 5686
Marie.Linton@yarracity.vic.gov.au
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