Access Technology
The Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped along with the Free Library of Philadelphia is committed to making their collections and programs accessible to all. We have installed special computers called Access Technology Workstations in several neighborhood libraries and the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.
These workstations enable people who are legally blind or otherwise print impaired to:
- Magnify print materials for easy reading with a closed circuit TV system.
- Enlarge computer screen content using ZoomText magnifying software.
- Convert printed text to synthesized speech and digital formats using Kurzweil 1000 scanning software and a scanner.
- Hear computer screen content using JAWS, a screen-reading computer program with synthesized speech.
- Create Braille documents with Duxbury Braille translation software and a Juliet Pro Braille embosser
- Access computer screen content using a refreshable Braille display.
Workstations are located at:
- Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Talking Book Center
919 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-683-3213 - Central Library
Central Senior Services
1901 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-686-5322 - Andorra Branch
705 Cathedral Road
Philadelphia, PA 19128
215-685-2552 - Independence Branch
18 South 7th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-685-1633 - Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library
Special Services Department
68 West Chelten Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19144
215-685-2154 - Lucien E. Blackwell Regional Library **closed for renovations**
Special Services Department
125 South 52nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19139
215-685-7420 - Northeast Regional Library
Magazines and Newspapers Department
2228 Cottman Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19149
215-685-0525
- South Philadelphia Branch
1700 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19145
215-685-1866