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Calculating Devices: Non-Electronic

Calculations may be done on a Perkins Brailler with the Nemeth Code of Braille Mathematics and Scientific Notation, a special braille code that is necessary for any but the simplest mathematical representations.

An abacus is an ideal tool for calculating. An adapted abacus, called a Cranmer Abacus, is especially useful for people with visual impairments. On this abacus, the beads slide against soft material so that they are not easily moved by accident. A larger Cranmer Abacus with bigger beads, called a Jumbo Abacus, is also available. Instructional programs in Braille and Large Print and on video for learning to use the abacus are available from the American Printing House for the Blind and Texas School for the Blind. Various instructional manuals, utilizing different methods of instruction, are available from other sources.

Resources

American Printing House for the Blind- www.aph.org
Exceptional Teaching, Inc.- www.exceptionalteaching.com
Howe Press- www.perkins.pvt.k12.ma.us
Independent Living Aids, Inc. - www.independentliving.com
LS&S Group, Inc.- www.lssgroup.com
Texas School for the Blind Publications-www.tsbvi.edu/publications/index.htm

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Canes and Electronic Travel Aids

The most-used independent travel aid continues to be the long cane. A variety of cane styles are in use. Canes can be rigid, folding, or telescoping. They can be made of aluminum, fiberglass, or graphite. Most have golf grips; some have crooks or weighted tops. Modified tips are available to add on (mushroom, teardrop, rolling). Some experimental canes have built in lights for increased visibility at night. Both rigid and folding canes for blind persons (as well as replacement tips) can sometimes be obtained from a local agency serving blind people. Thinner and lighter folding canes, known as identification canes, are available.

Canes and tips are available from a number of sources. You may want to order them by phone or on line if you have a credit card to charge them on, or you can order them by mail using a check or money order, which you buy at a bank or the post office.

Several electronic travel aids (ETAs) have been and are being developed for specialized travel needs. The usefulness of a particular electronic aid for any individual needs to be jointly assessed by the individual and a mobility specialist trained in the use of the equipment. The following descriptions provide some general information about aids that are currently available (listed in alphabetical order).

‘K’ Sonar Sonic Perceptual Aid:

The 'K' Sonar is a small, electronic travel device that attaches to a standard long cane. By listening to the sounds that the 'K' Sonar produces, the blind user can determine not only the distance and location of an object, but can also learn about some of its features and even achieve object recognition. The unit can be used independently or attached to the golf grip handle of an O & M cane. Headphones provide audio feedback to the user, changing in pitch to indicate distance to the object being "scanned." Two range modes allow for long range (about 16 feet with slower pulses) and short range (about 6 feet with faster pulses).

LaserCane™:

It is a sturdy, impact resistant cane, comprised of three optical triangulation systems, which, by means of pulses of laser, is reflected by objects in front of it. It detects obstacles in the travel path at three levels - head-height, straight-ahead, and drop-offs. It warns the user of approaching obstacles through varied audible tones and/or vibrating stimulators under the index finger. The user has the option of turning the audible tones off and rely on only vibrating stimulators. The present version, can be folded in two sections for storage when not in use and is powered by two “AA” size rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. If the power is off, it can be used as a traditional white cane. The LASER cane requires excellent cane technique to be used effectively.

MiniGuide:

The Miniguide is a small hand-held device that detects obstacles in front of the user. It is designed to be a secondary ETA. Both an audible and a tactile Miniguide are available. The audio aid indicates the distance to the closest object via an audio tone. The higher the pitch of the tone, the closer the object. A 3.5mm earphone socket is provided for more discreet operation and earphones with volume control are included. The tactile Miniguide is slightly larger than the original audio aid. The aid does not have a speaker or earphone socket, but it does have a small vibration unit. The vibration unit is powered by an extra battery attached to the back of the aid. The battery is a small AAA type battery. The battery life depends on the type of battery used, and how often the aid is vibrating. Both have a range of 1 to 4 meters. One could expect over 100 hours use from an alkaline battery with normal usage. A single push button is used to switch the aid on/off in each model and also select modes. In addition, there is a watchdog mode, a very low power mode that is used to detect people coming within a 1 or 2 metre range.

Normally the aid powers down automatically after one hour. In the watchdog mode the aid only powers down after about 13 hours. This allows the aid to be placed on a person's desk and indicate if a person is approaching (for up to 13 hours). In this mode the battery should be able to last over 400 hours.

Polaron:

Polaron is a hand‑held or chest‑mounted mobility device, using ultra‑sonic waves, producing either sound or tactile cues. It detects objects within four, eight, or sixteen feet. It can be used with or without a cane. It is especially useful for blind wheelchair users and for deaf‑blind persons.

Pathfinder:

This is another sensing device for blind wheelchair users. It consists of small rectangular boxes that can inconspicuously mounted on the sides of the wheelchair or other mobility devices. It uses ultrasonic beams to detect forward and side obstacles and lasers to detect drop-offs. Drop-off dectection is only on certain models. It gives feedback through varied audible warning signals or optional tactile signals. The forward detection can detect objects above head height up to 8 feet away, or 4 feet if selected. The side detection detects objects up to 12 feet away and has different pitches to indicate the left or right side. Step detection, in those models that include it, detect drop-offs within 4 feet.

As technology changes, ETAs come and go from the market. For instance, the Mowat Sensor is not being made anymore and the Nurion-Raycal website lists new products available soon.

Resources

Canes, Non-electronic:

Ambutech- 1-800-561-3340. www.ambutech.mb.ca
California Canes- 1-866-332-4883 (toll free). www.californiacanes.com
LS&S Group- 1-800-468-4789. www.lssgroup.com
Maxi-Aids- 1-800-522-6294. www.maxiaids.com
National Federation of the Blind- 1-401-685-5653. www.NFB.org
Revolution Enterprises- 1-800-382-5132. www.advantagecanes.com
WCIB- 417-574-6368
Your local agency serving people with visual impairments

Electronic mobility aids:

American Printing House for the Blind- www.aph.org- ‘K’ Sonar Sonic Perceptual Aid
LS&S Group, Inc.- www.lssgroup.com - Electronic travel aids
Nurion-Raycal- www.nurion.net- LASER canes, Polaron, Pathfinder
Sendero Group- www.senderogroup - Miniguide

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Catalogs

Catalogs are a valuable means by which to learn what is specifically available for visually-impaired consumers. They contain descriptions of items designed or adapted for use by persons with visual impairments. These catalogs can help parents and friends select gifts that meet a particular need of a person with a visual impairment. Some catalogs are specific in nature, for example those containing only computer software; others are more general, covering a wide range of products. Check specific topics in this book for more information. Most catalogs are free and are sent eagerly by the company.

Publications provide general service information for consumers with visual impairments and for educators and families.

Resources

Companies providing a variety of products:

American Foundation for the Blind Publications- www.afb.org
American Printing House for the Blind- www.afb.org
Ann Morris Enterprises, Inc. (contact ILA/AnnMorris Division for catalog)
Exceptional Teaching Inc.- www.exceptionalteaching.com
Howe Press- www.perkins.pvt.k12.ma.us
Independent Living Aids, Inc (ILA)- www.independentliving.com
LS&S Group, Inc.- www.lssgroup.com
Lighthouse NY- www.lighthouse.org
Maxiaids- www.maxiaids.com
National Association for the Visually Handicapped- Visual Aids and Information- 415-221‑8753
Science Products- Science Products Resource Guide: Special Vision Aids, Tools, Instruments & Materials
Speak To Me- www.speaktomecatalog.com for talking products; some are practical and others are just for fun

Additional Publications:
Prevent Blindness Northern California, Coping with Sight Loss in Northern California

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Closed Circuit Television Systems (CCTV's)

For persons with low vision, television technology has been adapted to provide a system that views the printed page with a camera and transmits the image, enlarged up to forty or more times, onto a television monitor. Some use a dedicated monitor (one that is part of the CCTV system). Others can be used with a regular television monitor. Another option is a CCTV that works in conjunction with your personal computer. There are two basic types of CCTV's. With one system the user places the book on a floating platform under a fixed camera and the image of the book is projected onto the screen. These come in one or two-piece units. The other type requires that the user hold a small scanner, which is usually about two inches by four inches. The scanner is moved across the page line by line. The image is projected on a regular television screen or on a small screen attached to the scanner, or onto a screen mounted in a visor worn like glasses. Use of the hand scanner requires good manual dexterity. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages.

Screen sizes and other features vary widely. Some systems offer just black and white images. Some offer full color viewing. Almost all systems allow the user to reverse the foreground and background colors, making either a positive or negative image. Most also allow the user to isolate a line of print material. Many can be adjusted to read paper in the typewriter. Some can be connected to a computer to enlarge the computer screen on the CCTV monitor.

There are several sources for CCTV's. Many companies provide video tapes of their product line. The prospective user will want to review as many models as possible before making a decision. Listed below are just a few vendors of CCTV's located in California. A listing of international sources is available from the American Foundation for the Blind.

Resources

For a comprehensive fact sheet go to www.abledata.com
American Foundation for the Blind (for more information)– www.afb.orgAccess Ingenuity- www.accessingenuity.com
Clarity - www.clarityusa.com - 800-575-1456
Enhanced Vision- www.enhancedvision.com
Optelec– www.optelec.com - 800-828-1056
Humanware- www.humanware.com
Read Again- 888-322-5949

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Community Activities with Special Accommodations

Some organizations within your community will offer programs with special adaptations for people with impairments. For example, some museums and galleries have special tours for people with visual impairments. Restaurants often have braille menus. Stores usually offer special help with shopping. (Fine department stores, such as Nordstrom, offer “personal shoppers” for all their customers). Theaters and churches may provide Braille and large print materials. Some performances of Bay Area shows and some movie theaters in San Francisco and Los Angeles feature descriptive audio. Some sports franchises provide team schedules in braille (these schedules are all available online. They may also offer special seating for visually impaired when requested. Local city and county recreational services sometimes offer programs for people with visual impairments, or they may have special facilities such as paths with points of interest labeled in Braille or explained by means of an audio device.

Sometimes local clubs accommodate to participants with visual impairments. For example, a bicycle club may welcome tandem cyclists and even provide front seat riders for blind participants.

Many organizations and businesses welcome suggestions and help. Just because they have not provided services for the blind in the past, does not mean they are not willing to do so. For example, you might offer to take the menu of your favorite restaurant to a local transcribing group so that it can be transcribed in Braille. Be sure to ask for what you need. It just might be available. Be sure to express appreciation when a special service has been particularly helpful to you.

See also:

Community Agencies Serving Blind and Visually Impaired People
Outdoor Activities and Sports
Travel

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Computer Access

A very large number of devices and computer programs are available which make it possible or easier for people with impairments to use computers. New devices are added almost daily. If you are not able to see the computer screen well or if you are having trouble using the standard computer keyboard, you may wish to consider purchasing and learning to use specialized equipment designed to help visually impaired people use computers. Here are some ways that you can begin to find your computer needs and what is available.

1. Find someone near you who is using computer technology which is like what you think you might need. This person might be willing to demonstrate the equipment for you.
2. Visit a large display of products that are designed to help people with visual impairments use computers. The National Federation of the Blind, the American Council of the Blind, and CTEVH all have conferences at which many vendors of computer access equipment display their products. An annual conference put on by the California State University at Northridge (CSUN) features a display of computer products designed to help people with many different disabilities.
3. The Hadley School for the Blind offers several courses designed to help visually impaired people learn to use computers, beginning with a course called, "Introduction to Microcomputers." Hadley offers its courses by correspondence to legally blind individuals. Course materials are provided in Braille, on cassette or in large print.
4. Local agencies serving visually impaired people may offer evaluation of individual computer access needs and may also offer training. They will also often be able to recommend other local services and tell you about near-by vendors of computer equipment.
5. There are several sources of annotated lists of computer equipment designed for use by people who are visually impaired which contain such sections. They are available for a modest price in Braille or in large print. The American Foundation for the Blind, the Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology, and the National Federation of the Blind are some of the groups which maintain databases of specialized computer access products which enable them to answer many questions about where to find specific kinds of equipment.
6. Several agencies assist people who are visually impaired meet their computer access needs: Center for Accessible Technology (Berkeley), formerly the Disabled Children's Computer Group, focuses on children and addresses needs of a broad range of disability groups. The Sensory Access Foundation (Palo Alto) focuses mainly on the needs of adults who need to use computers on the job. The Braille Institute of America has a demonstration center in Los Angeles. Most residential rehabilitation programs include a computer training component.
7. There are many books and periodicals covering the topic of computer access for visually impaired people. For information, contact the National Library Service, Recording for the Blind, Inc., and/or National Braille Press.
8. There are many companies, large and small, which sell computer access products for use by visually impaired people. You can visit such companies and/or arrange for a company representative to bring equipment to you for demonstration. Be sure to shop around so that you know about products from more than one company.
9. Some community colleges and a few universities have "High Tech Centers." These are demonstration and training centers planned especially to meet the needs of post-secondary students. These centers help people with a variety of different disabilities learn to access computers.

Resources

American Council of the Blind- www.acb.org
California Council of the Blind- www.ccbnet.org
American Foundation for the Blind- www.afb.org
American Printing House for the Blind- www.aph.org
Braille Institute of America- www.brailleinstitute.org
California Transcribers and Educators of the Visually Handicapped- www.ctevh.org
Center for Accessible Technology- www.cforat.org
Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology- www.cde.ca.gov/re/pn/sm/csmtcontacts.asp
Hadley School for the Blind-www.hadley.edu
High Tech Center Training Unit- www.htctu.fhda.edu
National Braille Press- www.nbp.org
National Federation of the Blind- www.nfb.org
National Federation of the Blind of California- www.nfbcal.org
National Library Service- www.loc.gov/nls
Recording for the Blind, Inc. www.rfb.com
Sensory Access Foundation- www.sensoryaccess.com
Your local agency serving people with visual impairments

See also:

Daily Living Skills
High Tech Centers of the California Community Colleges

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Consumer Organizations of the Blind

Many agencies exist to benefit people who are blind or visually impaired. Among several organizations that fit such a definition, two stand out because of their size and political activism: the American Council of the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind. Notice that they are organizations “of the blind.” Both the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind charge their members modest dues. Both produce publications in Braille, large print, email, cassette, and through their websites.

Both organizations have affiliates in all 50 states. In California, the American Council of the Blind (ACB) affiliate is the California Council of the Blind (CCB). The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) affiliate is the National Federation of the Blind of California (NFBC). The CCB and the NFBC have local chapters. Special interest groups exist within the larger organizations to which members may belong.

ACB and NFB activities include but are not limited to:

1.Organizing collective efforts to represent the interests of the blind and visually impaired, such as letter writing campaigns, having members participate on advisory boards, lobbying Congress, Governors’ offices, State Legislatures and other policy making bodies
2.Providing goods and services of particular interest to people who are blind or visually impaired
3.Meeting in statewide and national conventions to arrive at policy statements in the form of resolutions, to examine current technology, to share information, to hear from community leaders, and to socialize
4.Providing meeting opportunities for special interest groups such as: vendors, teachers, students, parents, library users, lawyers, guide dog users, Government workers, etc.
5.In California the CCB and NFBC inform the public about the capabilities and successes of people who are blind to provide alternatives to conventional wisdom regarding blindness and low vision.
6.Both organizations have large accessible websites with extensive coverage of their activities and services.

The American Council of the Blind states its purpose as:

The Council strives to improve the well-being of all blind and visually impaired people by: serving as a representative national organization of blind people; elevating the social, economic and cultural levels of blind people; improving educational and rehabilitation facilities and opportunities; cooperating with the public and private institutions and organizations concerned with blind services; encouraging and assisting all blind persons to develop their abilities and conducting a public education program to promote greater understanding of blindness and the capabilities of blind people.”

The National Federation of the Blind states its purpose as:

The purpose of the National Federation of the Blind is two-fold: to help blind persons achieve self-confidence and self-respect and to act as a vehicle for collective self-expression by the blind. By providing public education about blindness, information and referral services, scholarships, literature and publications about blindness, aids and appliances and other adaptive equipment for the blind, advocacy services and protection of civil rights, development and evaluation of technology, and support for blind persons and their families, members of the NFB strive to educate the public that the blind are normal individuals who can compete on terms of equality.

Editor’s Comment

A young person can gain a great deal by checking into membership in one of these consumer organizations, because development of laws and policies that affect people who are blind are heavily influenced by input from organizations of the people about whom laws and policies are written. Not only that, joining one of the organizations or attending their conventions is a great way to stay in touch with other people who are blind, including friends from school.

The California Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (CAPVI) is also a consumer organization. Members are parents who have children who are blind or visually impaired. CAPVI is associated with the National Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (NAPVI). CAPVI produces a newsletter called THE CAPVI CONNECTION. Parent workshops focusing on specific topics of interest are held each year. The location of the workshops alternates between Northern and Southern California.

Resources

American Council Of The Blind- www.acb.org
California Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (CAPVI)-
209-586-2652
California Affiliate of ACB- www.ccbnet.org
California Council of the Blind (CCB)- www.ccbnet.org
Note: The ACB has an Internet “radio” service at www.acbradio.org
National Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (NAPVI)- www.spedex.com/napvi
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)- www.nfb.org
National Federation of the Blind of California (NFBC)- www.nfbcal.org

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Correspondence Courses

Home-study courses enable students of all ages to learn at an individualized pace. Courses range from academic and vocational to self-improvement. Courses are available in print, on tape, and in braille and are tuition-free.

The Hadley School for the Blind offers a standard academic curriculum and offers courses in reading and writing Braille for students, parents and teachers of the visually impaired, there are courses in life-skills and hobbies. For instance, Transition to the American University is a course designed to help students who are visually impaired move successfully from high school to college, while Going Places targets those who cannot drive and are not yet familiar with using public transportation.

The National Library Service offers courses leading to certification in braille transcription and braille proofreading. Certification is also available for music braille and Nemeth codes.

Resources

Hadley School for the Blind- www.hadley.edu, 800-526-9909
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped- www.loc.gov/nls, 800-424-8567

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Counselor/Enabler Programs at Colleges and Universities

Also known as Disabled Student Services, these programs are available on most California junior college and university campuses. Staffed by trained professionals, the programs provide a broad range of support services for students with disabilities. Among the services available are counseling, tutoring, and reader assistance. Office staff will assist students in working with professors and lecturers to make tests and handouts accessible. The facility for students with disabilities frequently has specialized equipment available such as speech-access computers, braillewriters, CCTV's and reading machines. These programs are valuable resources for any student with special needs.

Heath Resource Center of the American Council on Education and the Association on Handicapped Student Services Programs has published, HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLEGE: GUIDE FOR THE STUDENT WITH A DISABILITY. The following are some questions students with visual disabilities should ask:

1. Will my textbooks be made accessible in the medium I use? How can I obtain accessible textbooks?
2. Will I have assistance in obtaining and using readers? How many reader hours may I use?
3. What kind of arrangements will be available for taking tests?
4. What kinds of adaptive equipment are available to me? How many people will be using each piece?
5. How accessible is the library in terms of equipment and services?
6. What help will I have learning to get around the campus?
7. Will I need to make special arrangements for my dog guide?
8. Where will I get personal, academic, or career counseling?
9. Are there other services available for people with vision disabilities?
10. What do I need to do to assure the services I need?

Resources

Heath Resource Center- www.finaid.org/otheraid/disabled.phtml
Local Junior Colleges
California State Universities
Universities of California

Finding a Career

American Foundation for the Blind has a program called AFB CareerConnect. It helps students who are visually impaired connect with successful mentors who are visually impaired and working in careers they might be interested in. The program has an interactive tool that helps you write a resume, store a personal profile and track appointments. It is a source for finding, landing and holding on to jobs.

Resources

American Foundation for the Blind- www.afb.org

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Daily Living Skills for Home and Work

Everyone wrestles with the question, how independent is independent enough? There is no absolute answer, no moment when a person knows she is fully self-reliant. Nobody is ever completely on his own. But, as a person with low vision or blindness, you want to be taken seriously. You want to make your own decisions. You know how important it is to be confident and to seem confident dealing with other people, and when getting around in your community. Obviously, we need to be good at various skills. It is important to learn how to perform hundreds of interrelated tasks and to perform them reasonably efficiently.

Training in living skills is available, however, it is crucial that you know you are capable of living independently. To actually live independently will require learning a sense of the world and how things work. In other words, as you seek greater independence, you must become more sophisticated regarding the complexity of everyday self-reliant community life. For, with independence comes responsibility.

When you live independently, you will use the mathematics you took in school in managing money. The hours of homework in English are essential in writing letters, emails, shopping lists, and filling out forms. Orientation and mobility classes enable you to become a resourceful traveler.

If you are a curious person, then work to get answers to your questions. If you see the dozens of items in a kitchen store, remember that each item is a specialized tool that requires a certain skill to make it work. The task of peeling, serving, cutting, measuring, pouring, stirring, slicing, and grating each require different methods. Or, go to a hardware store and notice all the tools. Many people who work with tools and equipment for their job develop very exact knowledge and skill in using those tools. We don’t have to be experts to drive a nail, screw in a screw, cut a board, or fix a leaking faucet. Once you put in a light bulb or put together a new piece of furniture, it makes the next time when you have to do it much easier.

Having low vision or being blind does not mean you can’t cook or do laundry. Being blind isn’t an excuse for avoiding helping our families, and it doesn’t mean you can’t live on your own or with non-family roommates. You can replace the batteries in your electronic equipment and decide how your living space should be set up. Your opinions are valid about the kinds of clothes you like, even if you do wish to turn to a trusted sighted person for advice on color. There are legitimate visual concerns when it comes to where things are placed, so a blind person might find it helpful to work with others in a spirit of compromise, but a blind person should have aesthetic views too. The sighted word should not necessarily be the “last word.”

This is also true in the workplace. At work a blind person may find that a lot of time is spent getting systems working. But the blind person also must be a part of the work unit or team. It’s important to know how your co-workers cope with the demands of the job. It’s fine to get your own snacks, lunch items, drinks, etc. It’s beneficial to engage with others at work about things they want to discuss. The price for getting others to understand your needs is that you must develop genuine interest in the needs of others, even when your methods may be different. For example, if I want my co-worker to understand my frustration working my computer using a screen reader or enlarger, I will have to listen when my co-worker is frustrated operating his or her computer with the mouse, and not simply ignore their situation because I can’t use a mouse. And when everybody in the office knows how to replace paper in the fax machine, you are more a part of the team when you also know how to replace paper.

It’s definitely not easy finding focused living skills instruction that specifically addresses each person’s individual needs. It can be embarrassing to admit to people that we don’t know how to do some basic thing we are sure everyone else knows how to do. Many people who look toward an independent life are not sure of personal skills involving nail care, shaving, hair styling, etc. Household management can also be a puzzle. How does a person fold clothes so they fit neatly in drawers? If you get a new apartment, how do you hang the new shower curtain? How do you change the bag on your vacuum cleaner? How do you hook up a stereo, hang a poster, or fold a fitted sheet?

It’s important to know that everyone who knows how to live independently had to learn the skills and develop the motivation to practice the skills of independence. You can learn a great deal from people whom you know are good at many of the skills it will take to function independently. You might wish to look into attending a program where actually live in a situation that teaches you the skills. California has four residential Rehabilitation Centers you can read about elsewhere in this document. The Living Skills Center for the Visually Impaired specifically addresses issues of people who are beginning an independent life.

Your vision disability will present challenges with regard to independence. There will always be print that is inaccessible, new tasks to master, and times when the lists of things to know seems far too long. But the rewards of the independent life are many. Just as you endeavored to work through school, the lessons of every day community participation are mostly achievable! The most important thing to know about living skills is that you can do it.

Individuals who wish to receive training in skills of daily living such as mobility, housekeeping, personal business management or prevocational skills can obtain training from several agencies.

Residential Rehabilitation Centers

California has four Residential Rehabilitation Centers:
Blindness Support Services in Riverside, California
Davidson Program for Independence in Los Angeles, California
Living Skills Center for the Visually Impaired in San Pablo, California Orientation Center for the Blind in Albany, California

All four centers work with “consumers” of the Department of Rehabilitation who have Individual Plans for Employment (IPE’s) with Department of Rehabilitation, a state agency. Students live in apartments while attending Blindness Support Services and Living Skills Center. Students live in dormitories at Davidson Program for Independence and Orientation Center for the Blind.

All four programs help students become independent, self reliant, and confident as they seek to successfully live on their own or obtain employment. All four programs emphasize independent travel, communication skills such as Braille, and the use of accessible technology. Intense instruction is provided in living skills such as cooking, home management, personal business methods, and alternative techniques for performing everyday tasks.
The four programs differ in the way they deliver their various curricula. OCB and DPI teach in a classroom setting, while LSC and BSS work with students in their apartments and in classrooms. OCB and DPI tend to have students who are newly blind, while Living Skills Center tends to have students who are just starting out being independent. Blindness Support Services serves both kinds of students.

Resources

Blindness Support Services, Inc.- www.blindnesssupport.com
Email: pbenavidez@blindnesssupport.com (Peter Benavidez, Executive Director)
Davidson Program for Independence- www.fjb.org
Contact Ken Metz
Living Skills Center for the Visually Impaired
Contact Patty Williams, Executive Director
Email: Patty@livingskillscenter.org
www.livingskillscenter.org
Orientation Center for the Blind
Contact Mike Cole, Administrator
Email: mcole@dor.ca.gov
www.dor.ca.gov

See also:
California Department of Rehabilitation
Residential Rehabilitation Centers
Private Agencies for the Blind
Consumer Organizations of the Blind
Residential Rehabilitation Centers

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Descriptive Video

Today blind and visually impaired individuals can enjoy many movies and television programs without missing the action. Descriptions have been added to a growing number of videos. Some programs on the public television stations have descriptions. To enjoy the program with descriptions, push the SAP button on a stereo television or VCR, or purchase an adapter to connect to the television. Directions for turning on this feature can be found on the following web site: http://main.wgbh.org/-wgbh/pages/mag/resources/guides/mag_guide_vol4.html gives step by step tips. For a list of programs available check with your local public television station, contact WGBH Boston or check listings on the website, www.tv-now.com/dvs. DVS Home Video is a service of WGBH Boston. Your local station may not carry all the programs with descriptions. Some movie theaters in major cities provide descriptive video. Check with your local theaters.

Descriptive video service is also available online. By accessing the Narrative Television Network’s website, www.narrativetvcom/films.htm, you can watch a large selection of described films online at no charge. Access-USA video services produces video with audio description.

Through a process called Audiovision, Broadway and other shows in the Bay Area are described. This is done at selected performances at which a limited number of Walkman-like devices are available to blind people at each performance. To find out about described events, contact Audiovision, Inc. For tickets and receiver reservations, contact the theater where the show is being staged, or Ticketmaster.

Resources

Access-USA- www.access-usa.com
Audiovision, Inc.- 415-641-4589
Local public television stations
WGBH Boston- www.wgbh.org

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Dictionaries and Reference Books

Portable Talking Dictionaries

Children’s Talking Dictionary

Features include:
1.Keys speak when pressed
2.Has 44,000 definitions
3.Corrects a phonetically entered word automatically
4.Keys are color coded
5.It’s small, measuring less than 7 inches in length
6.It works off 4 - AAA batteries.
7.It costs approximately $60.00.

Franklin “Language Master Speaking Dictionary” model LM-6000se, of all the portable talking dictionaries the most accessible. www.franklin.com

Features Include:
1.Letters are spoken as they are entered and the word is pronounced.
2.Approximately 30,000 definitions.
3.Thesaurus
4.Several verbal games that are completely accessible.
5.The screen has four LCD lines.
6.$445-$500.00, depending on vendor.

Large Print Dictionaries

The “Webster Elementary Dictionary” and an Intermediate level dictionary are available through Library Reproduction Services. They also sell elementary and intermediate level thesauruses. The “Large Print Merriam Webster Collegiate Dictionary” is available through catalogs and Borders bookstores and other local bookstores by special order.

“Easy Learning Dictionaries” Bilingual Large Type Dictionaries in French, Spanish, and German are available through Royal National Institute for the Blind in England.

Atlases

Tactile and Braille atlases are available through American Printing House for the Blind. Princeton Braillists sells tactile maps.

A Large Print atlas is available through G.K. Hall. There is an atlas that is not made for visually impaired but has beautiful large print maps with large labels. It is called “National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers” (don’t let the title discourage older users from checking this one out). It can be found in or ordered from large bookstores.

At www.InfoEyes.org a visually impaired person can e-mail a librarian and ask reference questions on any topic and do research. Dictionaries and Encyclopedias are available through software and online. Research can be done on the Internet, so one is not limited to accessible reference books.

A telephone source for information on weather, sports, driving directions, and news is 1-800-555-8355 (1-800-555-TELL).

Resources:

American Printing House for the Blind- www.aph.org
EnableMart- www.enablemart.com
Freedom Scientific- www.freedomscientific.com
G.K. Hall- 800-223-6121
GW Micro-www.gwmicro.com
Independent Living Aids- www.independentliving.com
Princeton Braillists- 609-924-5207
National Geographic Society School Publishing- 800 368 2728
Royal National Institute for the Blind- www.onlineshop.rnib.org.uk
Local bookstores

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Dog Guides

A dog guide provides an efficient and reliable means of mobility for a person who is blind or visually impaired. There are about a dozen dog guide schools in the US. Most provide their services free of charge and some charge a nominal fee. The basic criteria for acceptance into most of the programs are: The client must be
legally Blind
a minimum age of 16 years
an independent traveler, able to travel without the assistance of another person on meaningful routes
be physically capable of working a dog guide on a daily basis
be mentally and emotionally stable
have the ability to provide a loving, safe, and stable home to a dog
be able to demonstrate the need for a mobility aid

Orientation and mobility skills are critical in order to work with a dog guide. You need to know how to reach your intended destination so you can give your guide the verbal commands in order to get there.

Most schools visit dog guide applicants in their home environments to determine if a dog guide would be useful to them. This assessment process gives the applicant a chance to gain a clear picture of the program and the responsibilities of living and working with a dog guide. It also allows the school to obtain a good understanding of the applicant's lifestyle and mobility needs which will help the school to make the best possible dog-person match.

At most schools, first-time students attend an in-residence training program for approximately one month. Other training options, such as in-home and in-community training are sometimes available at certain schools on a case-by-case basis. Training includes dog obedience exercises and guide work as well as daily feeding, relieving, and grooming sessions. The dog guide will have been trained to stop for steps, curbs, and on-coming traffic, and will lead their handler around obstacles such as broken pavement, other pedestrians, or even overhead obstructions. Dogs cannot read traffic signals; the handler must be able to listen to the flow of traffic to determine when it is safe to cross the street.

When choosing a dog guide school you should do your homework by asking about each school's particular services. You should find out if they provide any after care or extended service in the event you were to have a problem with your dog at home. Some schools provide help with veterinary expenses.

A helpful book for anyone wishing to obtain a dog guide is A Guide to Guide Dog Schools by Eames, Gardiner and Gingold. This book is now available from Ed and Toni Eames. The book discusses how a dog guide can help a blind person, and describes its impact on the dog guide's family and the rest of the world. It also enumerates and describes all of the guide dog schools available.

California's Department of Social Services provides a Guide Dog Special Allowance Program, giving a $30 per month cash grant to legally blind recipients of the State Supplemental Program (SSP) and/or In‑Home Supportive Services (Homemaker/Chore) for the purchase of food for bona fide guide dogs.

Resources

Dog Guides and Dog Guide Training:
These facilities, in California, train and supply dog guides to blind persons at no cost:

Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc., campuses in San Rafael and Boring, Oregon- www.guidedogs.com

Guide Dogs of America- 818 362-5834-
www.guidedogsofamerica.com

Guide Dogs of the Desert, Palm Springs, CA
760.329.6257
www.guidedogsofthedesert.com

Additional guide dog schools in the United States:

Seeing Eye, Morristown, NJ
973.539.4425
www.seeingeye.com

Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester, MI
1-888-777-5332 (toll free). www.leaderdog.org

Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Yorktown Heights, NY
www.guiding-eyes.org
There are other dog guide schools in the United States and Canada which you can find by searching the internet.

Information about dog guides and training centers:

Ed and Toni Eames, guide dog users and authors
www.iaadp.org/bookstore.html

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Electronic Reading Machines

(Editor’s note: article and resources to be updated in January, 2006)

Electronic reading machines use modern computer technologies to help individuals read print material independently. These devices recognize characters on printed pages and convert the characters so that computers can understand them. This is why they are called "optical character recognition (OCR) systems". Some people refer to this technology as "scanning". Many libraries, community college high‑tech centers, and universities use them to assist the visually impaired and others who cannot benefit from conventional print. For many, the personal productivity, independence, and freedom these personal reading systems offer far outweigh their high cost.

There are two groups of optical character recognition systems. The first group consists of dedicated reading machines. These are designed only to read and save what has been read. Some features of these tools include the capability to 1) provide synthesized speech output from standard printed material in a variety of page sizes, fonts, and page formats; 2) record documents on a tape recorder; 3) save documents on a personal computer through a serial communications port for manipulation and braille output; 4) save thousands of pages or several books; and 5) listen privately using headphones. The second group consists of personal computers that have been adapted to provide reading functions. They scan, recognize, and convert print to a computer text file. Then the reader can use adaptive equipment on his or her computer to "read" the document. In addition, depending upon individual need, the adapted computer system can offer the user a host of other applications including 1) word processing; 2) database management; 3) electronic mail; and 4) connection to computer networks. Should you be in the market for a personal reading system, it is very important for you, as a consumer, to assess your individual needs, availability of funds, the quality of technical support, and ability of the system to read the kind of material you will wish to read.

To get names of manufacturers and descriptions of optical character recognition systems or other assistive devices, in addition to those listed below, call the California Department of Education's Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology, 916-445‑5103.
Resources

Information:
Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology

Optical character recognition based reading systems (partial list):
Freedom Scientific- Open Book- www.freedomscientific.com
Kurzweil- Reading Edge- www.kurzweiledu.com

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Elections and Voting

To vote, you must be 18 and a registered voter. You must be registered at least 15 days before the first election in which you wish to vote. Registration forms are available at local post offices. You can also register online or at the Department of Motor Vehicles at the same time you apply for a State Identification Card. Once registered, you are a permanent voter and do not need to register again unless you move or change your name.

When going to your polling place to vote (determined by your street address), go with a trusted friend or family member who can read the ballot to you and accurately record your vote. Be prepared by knowing which candidates, propositions, and members you want to vote for to save time. Many people request permanent Absentee Ballots so they can take more time and vote at their convenience. The State of California produces a cassette-recorded version of the ballot pamphlet. It is available at most public libraries. Contact your County Registrar of Voters for information.
More information is available through The League of Women Voters. The League, with branches in different states, is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of women and men, which never supports or opposes candidates or political parties. It gives voting information and encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government.

Resources:

County Registrar of Voters
League of Women Voters of California- www.ca.lwv.org
Local Library
Local Post Offices

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Enlarged Drawings

Although no publisher provides a catalog of enlarged drawings, some maps are available from publishers of large-print books. Students who need specific drawings, such as a campus map, graphs from a book, etc., may identify volunteer transcribing groups who have members with the necessary skills.

TAEVIS (Tactile Access to Education for Visually Impaired Students) Online is an electronic library containing over 2,500 tactile diagrams used in college level courses. They can be downloaded, enlarged and printed.

Resources

American Printing House for the Blind www.aph.org
Clearing House for Specialized Media and Technology- for information on transcribers- www.cde.ca.gov/re/pn/sm/csmtcontacts.asp
TAEVIS- www.taevisonline.purdue.edu

See also:

Large Print Books: How to Have Books Enlarged

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Eye Specialists

Low Vision Specialist:

A low vision specialist is an optometrist who specializes in the evaluation of low vision and the prescription of low vision aids.

Ophthalmologist:

An ophthalmologist is a doctor of medicine (M.D.) who has completed four years of college, four years of medical school, a one year medicine and surgery internship, and three years of special training in ophthalmology. He/she diagnoses and treats all disorders of the eyes, does eye surgery, may refract (measure the focus of the eyes), and may prescribe glasses.

Optometrist:

An optometrist is a doctor of optometry (O.D.). He/she measures the focus of the eye in order to prescribe glasses and may also supply the lenses. The optometrist is not qualified to treat ocular diseases, do eye surgery or prescribe medication.

Optician:

An optician is a trained and skilled technician who, on authorization of an ophthalmologist or optometrist, takes the necessary facial measurements to make glasses or other appliances.

See also:

Low Vision Aids
Low Vision Clinics

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Financial Aid

Social Security:

If a visually impaired person is in need of financial aid, he/she may be eligible for one of two programs operated by the Social Security Administration. One program is based upon contributions to the Social Security System and not on financial need. The other program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), is based upon need. Applications must be made in person. Funds can be used for meeting direct expenses of daily living, mobility training, rehabilitation, medical evaluation, or special aids.

Loans:

In addition to standard bank loans, there are a few loans specific to the needs of the visually impaired. One such loan is available through the American Foundation for the Blind for assistive technology. To obtain information regarding this loan, contact the AFB Hotline, 800-232-5463. Other manufacturers of special equipment may also be part of loan programs. They will be glad to inform you of any available funds. For a free report on funding sources for computers adapted to meet the needs of disabled people, contact Twin Peaks Press- 206-694-2462.
Other funding:

The National Science Foundation has funds available for adaptive technology. The foundation also promotes the development of materials to make science accessible to all persons with disabilities.

"Resources the Disabled Can Use to Acquire and Fund Computers" is a booklet of sources for grants, programs, services and technology-related assistance. It describes where to purchase equipment at a discount. It also contains a list of companies that produce special computer-related products for individuals. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to "Free Computer Report," Twin Peaks Press.

Resources

American Foundation for the Blind- www.afb.org
Manufacturers of specialized equipment
National Science Foundation – www.nsf.gov
Social Security Administration – www.ssa.gov
Twin Peaks Press - Box 129, Vancouver, WA 98666; (800) 637-2256

See also:

Scholarships

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Games

Almost all table games can be enjoyed by blind and sighted people together. Some organizations sell games which are particularly appropriate for, or which have been adapted for, blind or low vision people. Examples include: Braille and/or large print playing cards, dominoes, checkers, chess, and a wide variety of puzzles. Card games, such as Concentration and UNO, and board games, such as dominoes, checkers, and chess, can be adapted so that the pieces can be touched without danger of moving them. Where color differences are important, shape differences are added. For example, for checker games, black checkers are round and red pieces are square. Print text is enlarged and may also be written in Braille. Braille playing cards, Scrabble, and Monopoly are examples of games that are available with large print and Braille text. Bop-It is fun toy that involves auditory memory and quick reflexes.

For the table-top builder, almost any materials can be used to make two- or three-dimensional structures. For people who rely primarily on touch to examine and build, pieces that will tend to stay in place when touched lightly are easier to manage than pieces that fall apart when handled. Magnets, materials with interlocking pieces like Lego blocks, and Wikki-stix (string coated with a waxy substance which is flexible, yet stays in place) work well.

Most activities are made easier when done on a surface that is not slick. Felt or other cloth surfaces work well.

For Internet games that are accessible for the blind, go to www.gmagames.com.

Resources

American Printing House for the Blind- www.aph.org
Braille Institute of America- www.brailleinstitute.org
Exceptional Teaching, Inc.- www.exceptionalteaching.com
Independent Living Aids- www.independentliving.com
LS&S Group- www.lssgroup.com
National Library Service- www.loc.gov/nls
Your local agency serving blind and visually impaired people

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Gifts and Products embossed with Braille

Many agencies that serve the blind and visually impaired often sell gift items, for example, American Printing House for the Blind sells key chains and greeting cards, and Guide Dogs for the Blind has a small gift shop. Other agencies that have stores for equipment and materials for the blind (such as The Lighthouse for the Blind in California and New York) also have online stores. Check your local agencies. Another good source for gifts is catalogs. Listed here are some businesses that have Braille gifts. Some of them donate a portion of their profits to agencies serving the blind.

At First Sight
Leslie Ligon makes necklaces and bracelets with Braille words, metal and beads. Her Braille alphabet bracelets are particularly popular. www.braillestone.com

BrailleGifts.Com
Specializes in Braille embroidery and gifts for the visually impaired, including tote bags, backpacks, apparel, and toys. Braille is embroidered on items in uncontracted Braille unless contracted Braille is requested. They can customize and do corporate logos.
www.braillegifts.com

Braille Novel-T’s
They have a selection of whimsical shirts, lapel pins, tote bags, and greeting cards featuring cartoon Three Blind Mice with an abacus, brailler, white cane, and slate and stylus. One fun shirt says: “Braille is like Chocolate…” on the front and “Good to the last dot!” written in chocolate chip Braille on the back.
www.braillenovelts.com

The Braille Superstore
In addition to selling Braille books for all ages, they carry a variety of Braille gifts including a Braille chocolate mold for making Braille greeting candy bars.
www.braillebookstore.com

Christiansen Designs (formerly Braille Sterling)
Kim Christiansen makes silver and gold tone jewelry and key chains with Braille messages. Some items can be personalized. www.christiansendesigns.com

Lucky Touch Fortune Cookies
This is a student operated business located at The California School for the Blind. They sell large and small fortune cookies, plain and chocolate with Braille fortunes. In addition to the standard fortunes, they can customize fortunes for any occasion. They are a wonderful novelty and they are great tasting cookies.
www.csb-cde.ca.gov

Not Vanilla
They make Braille tee shirts with different sayings. They have an “anti grope” feature. When someone wants to know what it says, flip your shirt up to reveal the print translation on the inside along the hem.
www.notvanilla.us/braillet-shirtsa.html

Seedlings Catalog
They sell Braille books for children, Braille t-shirts, totebags, playing cards and jewelry. www.seedlings.org

Products with Braille labels:

Carmela’s Gourmet Salad Dressing- varieties of salad dressings, regular and low fat made by a blind entrepreneur, gourmet cook.
www.carmelasgourmet

L’Occitane En Provence- beauty and skin care products, www.loccitane.com

See also:

Agencies serving the visually impaired
Catalogs
Local agencies

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Graph Paper

Raised line or dark line graph paper with tactile markers and dark pens may be used for graphing purposes. The graph paper comes in various grid sizes from APH. A special board, placed behind graph paper, will hold pushpins to graph on the embossed paper. High Dots or Wikki‑Stix can provide graph markers without the board. Tactile dots (felt, foam, etc., often used to protect furniture) are also available in local hardware stores. Graphic tape for connecting dots is available in varied widths from stationery stores. Hot glue guns are also good for drawing axis on graphs.

Resources

American Printing House for the Blind
Exceptional Teaching Aids
Local hardware stores
Local stationery stores

See also:

Calculating, Non-Electronic Devices
Enlarged Drawings
Tactile Graphics
Tactile Graphic Drawing Tools

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High Tech Centers of the California Community Colleges

The California Community College program of High Tech Centers for the Disabled provides training and access to assistive computer technologies for students with disabilities. Services and available equipment vary from college to college, but they generally include assistive computer technology for students with visual impairments.

High Tech Center staff remains abreast of legislation that impacts students with disabilities, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and current trends in adaptive computer technology. Students considering attending a community college can find out which colleges have High Tech Centers by calling the main office. Students can gain more knowledge about speech synthesis, scanning devices, and a host of other adaptive computer equipment by visiting a near-by High Tech Center.

Source

High Tech Center Training Unit- www.htctu.fhda.edu

See also

Counselor/Enabler Programs

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Labels

Braille or large print labels can make a multitude of things easier to find. Canned and frozen food, medicine, books, documents, drawers, and even clothing can be labeled for quick and easy identification.

Large print readers will find a wealth of labeling tools in any store carrying office or school supplies. Self adhesive labels come in many sizes. Black felt tipped pens, colored heavy or fine tip pens, crayons, and self adhesive colored dots are all useful for making things easy to identify at a glance.

Braille users can use a brailler or slate and stylus to write on ordinary self- adhesive labels. The Braille dots will be readable on almost any label material and will hold up quite well on heavier grades. For labelling cassette tapes, there are specially made labels and slates.

Plastic labeling tape will hold Braille dots very well. Both colored and clear labelling tape as well as magnetic tape can be purchased from most stationery stores. Magnetic tape can also be used for labeling cans of food. Magnets or magnetic tape can be used in conjunction with Braille labeling materials.

To emboss braille characters on either plastic or magnetic label tape, a braille writer, braille slate, or braille labeling machine can be used. Howe press makes a device which holds the tape firmly in the Perkins braille writer. One-line slates and slates with slots through which to guide the labeling tape are both available. A hand held machine for making braille labels on labelling tape can also be purchased. Clear plastic self adhesive sheets come in a variety of sizes. Any size or shape desired can be cut from page sized sheets. Most plastic sheets will hold a sharp sturdy braille dot.

A quick and easy way to label cans of food is to wrap a brailled or large print index card around the can with a rubber band. When the can of food is consumed, the index card can then be used as part of a shopping list.

Where a dot or a raised line is needed rather than a letter, white glue dots, shapes made from self adhesive felt or plastic sheets, felt dots, or cork dots may work. Products especially made for visually impaired people include a special, very brightly colored glue-like substance in a tube, called Hi-Marks, and self adhesive single plastic dots that feel like braille dots.

For marking clothing, metal tabs stamped with braille letters representing a color can be obtained free or at low cost. These tabs have a hole at each end so that they can be sewn into clothing. Alternatively, a color code using safety pins, buttons, or any other material which can be attached to clothing or to the container in which the clothing is stored can be invented to solve particular clothing labeling problems.

Large print letters, also know as KeyCaps, are available for Computer Keyboards. They come in black on white, black on yellow, and white on black. Different color combinations provide better contrast for different people. They are also available with Braille/letter combinations. Hooleon Corporation also makes foreign language KeyCaps and customized labels along with specialized keyboards.

Access-USA custom makes Braille and Large Print signage and labels.

Resources

Access-USA- www.access-usa.com
American Printing House for the Blind- www.aph.com
American Thermoform Corp.- full page sturdy plastic labels- www.americanthermoform.com
Braille Institute of America- www.brailleinstitute.org
Exceptional Teaching, Inc.- clear plastic labels
Hooleon Corporation- www.hooleon.com
Howe Press- www.perkins.pvt.k12.ma.us
LS&S Group- www.lssgroup.com
Maxi Aids- www.maxiaids.com
Local agencies serving people with visual impairments

See also:

Catalogs
Slates and Styluses

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Large Print Books

If a thorough search of all sources (see resources at the end of this article)has been made and the needed large print transcription has not been located, then a request can be made to have the material put into large print by a volunteer transcribing organization. The procedure to do that follows.

1. Locate a volunteer transcribing organization. See Sources below.
2. Provide the transcriber with a print copy (some groups may request two if the enlargement is needed quickly).
3. Discuss business arrangements, such as cost to you (normally cost is just the cost of paper and duplication supplies), when you need the material, arrangements for delivery (in sections or complete), type of duplication, etc.
4. When the material arrives, let the transcribers know and thank them for their help.

There are two methods for enlarging printed material. Copy machines with enlarging capability can enlarge print sheets. Material stored on computer disk can usually be printed in a wide variety of print fonts and sizes.

Though individual large print readers have unique preferences with respect to size, font style, spacing and contrast, the standard size for large print is 18 point type with the highest contrast possible on paper which is dull to minimize glare. Paper must be sufficiently thick or opaque to prevent visual "bleed-through". A guide indicating 18 point should be available from any print shop. If copy machines are available and the person doing the copying has time and patience, almost any print material can be enlarged. Enlarging projects range from simple, one step procedures to complex tasks requiring many steps and great creativity. The simplest enlarging to do is to enlarge print material from 8.5 x 11 inch paper that is in 12 point type. Enlarging the material 150% onto 11 by 17 inch paper results in the entire page being copied in 18 point print. For books with large pages or newspapers, copies of pages may need to be made and then cut in sections and copied again. The goal is to make the print 18 point.

A large print copy will often have more pages than the original copy and each page may be significantly larger. This larger size can make the finished book difficult to handle. It is often easier for the user if the material is bound in sections, or volumes. When 11 x 17 inch paper is used, sections of approximately 50 pages are manageable. Every attempt should be made to keep chapters or units of academic material together in one volume.

Many copy shops provide enlarging services. Do not hesitate to ask for advice if you have a document that is difficult to enlarge.

A few companies will enlarge books on a fee per page basis. Books produced in this way are often very costly. However they have a professional look. Volumes are bound with labeled covers. These companies maintain catalogs of books that they have already enlarged and which are available for purchase.

Material available on computer disc can often be printed out in any point font. Select a font that is easily read by the consumer. The advantage of this method is that the material is printed on 8.5 x 11 inch paper. It is the fastest method for producing large print. Again the final document will include more pages than the original. Material should be bound in sections which are easy for the consumer to handle, and chapters or units should be kept together.

Resources

Lists of California Transcribers:

Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology- “A List of California Transcribers"-916-445-5103, www.cde.ca.gov/re/pn/sm/csmtcontacts.asp

National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped-
"Volunteers Who Produce Books"- www.loc.gov/nls

Companies that have a catalog of Large Print books and also enlarge material on a fee per page basis:

Library Reproduction Services- www.lrs-largeprint.com
InfoCon- www.infocon-inc.com
Imtrek- www.imtrek.com
Volunteer Transcribing Services

Retailers of Large Print Books:
Doubleday Large Print Home Library- www.doubledaylargeprint.com
Huge Print Press- Font sizes from 16 to 50. www.hugeprint.com
Large Print Books.Com- They claim to have the largest selection of Large Print Books available anywhere- www.largeprintbooks.com
Random House- 16 point type. 800-733-3000
Reader's Digest Large Type Reader- 16 point type. 800-678-9746
Ulverscroft Large Print Books- 16 point type. www.edisure.com/~ulverscroft/usa/usindex.html

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Lending Libraries

Books in braille, in large print, on tape, and on computer disk can be borrowed from a variety of libraries throughout the United States. Some libraries deal with only one subject, such as religious materials, while others cover many topics. Some libraries have Braille and tape, while others have just Braille, tape or large print. Libraries generally publish catalogs, which are usually free, and/or have a website. The catalog may be available in Braille, large print, on tape, or on disk.

Some libraries charge a fee to jo