There is a powerful and under-developed role for libraries in helping people with poor vision take advantage of new technologies.  Share the Vision, the partnership of UK libraries and library organisations that work together to improve the accessibility of library services for print disabled people, is looking for volunteers to help create two things:
 
  1. Advice for library services as to what "assistive technologies" they should have in place, in terms of monitors, mice, keyboards, software etc
  2. Guidance for frontline staff, so that they can take advantage of things like the free accessibility options on  Microsoft Office to help people with visual impairments.
 
This advice and guidance will be compiled on a blog and made available to everybody.
 
This would be a good development opportunity for a new professional, because it will involve working with a range of people across a range of organisations on a collaborative project. 
 
The commitment can be as large or small as you feel necessary.  We're hoping to get the project live by April 2015, and the volunteer will be expected research a particular subject area, find out what already exists on the subject, and draw it together on the blog.  Any meetings are likely to be remote, via Gotomeeting. 
 
If you've got an interest or expertise in the area of library technology for people with visual impairments, or have somebody who you think would benefit from helping with this project, we'd love to hear from you.  Please contact me for a further discussion.
 
Share the Vision is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.  You can find its website at http://www.share-the-vision.org.uk/
 
 Helen Leech
Acting Virtual Services Manager
Surrey Library Service

Tel: 07792 225915
Email: [log in to unmask]
@helenleech

Take a look at our range of Library Direct Services for those who have difficulty getting to the library http://youtu.be/EWHmCrpBzAA
 

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