The Main Street Library has a computer for the visually impaired available for public use.  This computer has a software program called JAWS, which allows the user to access the Internet and Microsoft Office software. It is also designed to scan regular printed material and convert it into speech, large print, and Braille.

• Scanner
• JAWS
• Microsoft Office Suite software
• Open Book
• Duxbury Braille conversion software
• Romeo Braille Printer
• HP Laserjet printer.

This computer is provided for the use of visually handicapped patrons wishing to access the Internet or to read and translate regular print materials into formats they can use.  It is also available to sighted patrons with a specific need to produce materials in special formats for visually handicapped persons. Examples of this would be a church wishing to produce a church bulletin in Braille for a blind member, or an individual wishing to type a letter to a blind friend who reads Braille.

It is impractical to use this computer to scan in lengthy documents (such as an entire book or magazine) for conversion to speech or Braille because of the time involved in the scanning and conversion process and could be a violation of the copyright act.  Library staff can provide referrals to other sources such as Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic for production of longer documents in alternative formats.

RULES AND REGULATIONS:

1.         Customers using this computer must either be active members of the Newport News Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped or have a Newport News Public Library System borrower's card in good standing.

2.         This computer is intended only for converting materials into formats for the visually impaired, and is not for use by sighted customers as a regular personal computer. Any abuse or misuse of the Arkenstone system will result in suspension of computer use privileges.

3.         Students below third grade level must be accompanied by an adult.

4.         No outside software of any kind may be used. 

5.         There is no charge to use the computer. The first twenty sheets of Braille paper are provided at no charge. After twenty sheets there will be a charge of $.10 per sheet.  Customers should be aware that printed documents of one average page in length generally translate into two to three pages of Braille.   

6.         Library staff will assist you in becoming familiar with the system and equipment as much as time permits.  The Library System assumes no responsibility for any loss of data, damage of disks, or computer viruses that may be incurred through use of the computer.