New software to help the visually impaired

Susan Knight is completely blind. But with the help of a computer, high tech software, and a scanner she can read any magazine, book, or newspaper. But even then there are more possibilities.

"Maybe it's a bank statement. I don't want people helping me to read my mail to know about my finances. So here I can scan it into the computer and the computer will read to me what it says," says Knight. Using control keys she can back up to the top, slow it down, or speed it up. "It gives me some independence in mastering the world of print," she says.

Mastering the varying software systems though is not always easy. Knight admits it's sometimes difficult to learn the control keys on different keyboards. "A lot of people are frightened by it because it is so new here," says Suzanne Barnes, the Chattahoochee Valley Regional Library System's Outreach Coordinator.

Another new software program is one that allows the visually impaired to surf the web. On command and using control keys Knight types in the website she wants to visit. Within a few seconds it pops up. "Someone who is totally blind can come in and learn how to use it and do basically anything a sighted person can do," adds Barnes.

There are only two of these computers in the Chattahoochee Valley Regional Library System. That's because the software and computer equipment can get very expensive. However, it is the library system's goal to equip all libraries in the Valley with at least one so more people will have access.