Assistive technology at State Library Victoria

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• Dragon Naturally Speaking
• JAWS
• Magnifiers
• NVDA
• Read&Write

Registered and identifiable assistance animals are welcome when with their handler (as per the Disability Discrimination Act 1992). Please ask staff if you require a water bowl (available from the Information Centre) for a registered assistance animal.

This guide introduces you to the Library's computers with assistive technology, available to people with disability or other accessibility needs. If you still have questions, Ask a Librarian - we're always here to assist.

Where do I find the assistive technology?

The Library has two dedicated zones reserved for users with access requirements.

Assistive technology zone 1: The Quad Information Centre

• Ground floor (Level 2 on map)
• Five powered height adjustable workstations
• Two computers

Image: A computer with assistive technology in the Information Centre.

Assistive technology zone 2: Redmond Barry Reading Room

• Level 2A (lift or stair access)
• One manually height adjustable workstation 
• One computer

Image: A computer with assistive technology in the Redmond Barry Reading Room.

The tabs at the top of this guide have information on each software and equipment offering.

Accessing the library

For information about accessing the Library, including wheelchair bookings, see the Access & Inclusion page [new window].

Assistive technology helps 'maintain or improve an individual’s functioning related to cognition, communication, hearing, mobility, self-care and vision, thus enabling their health, well-being, inclusion and participation' (United Nations, 2024).

How do I use the Library's assistive technology?

• These workstations make Library resources available in a format that meets your needs.
• For example, Pearl Camera and OpenBook can instantly scan a book, and turn it into speech. With our headsets, you can then listen to your chosen book or document. This means that texts only available in a printed format can be listened to.
• Computers with assistive technology are reserved for people with accessibility requirements. 
• Please ask staff to login. Sessions are for one hour and can be extended.

Who can use the assistive technology?

Use this technology if you:

• Have a learning, physical or other disability.
• Are blind or have low vision.
• Have difficulty writing or reading.