Hello,

I am working with some librarians on testing different
virtual reference software packages to see if they are
at all compatible with screen readers, etc.for serving
the visually impaired.

We have tested LSSI software using JAWS; JAWS would
read the web page, but none of the conversational/text
software at the right side of the page between the
librarian and the patron.

Tonight, Kathleen Giles and I tried Window Eyes
software with LSSI. It read the web page in the window
and also the text conversation going on in the right
frame between librarian and patron. It did not
identify the "connect" or "exit" buttons as what they
were, but read them as graphic.

As long as Kathleen moved the cursor from the left
frame to the right frame, the Window  Eyes would read
the web page or the conversation.  This would be very
difficult for someone totally blind to understand what
is going on.

I am wondering if others think that instant messaging
software might be most currently most effective for
providing virtual reference services to the visually
impaired.  It works well with screen reader, or with
audio if the person prefers to use a microphone - most
VR packages do not offer audio capabilities at this
time.

I know from the responses to Kathleen's post that
there are people out there interested in VR services
for the visually impaired. It would be great if we
could get together and work cooperatively since this
is a service that seems to be done best
collaboratively.

Are there any vendors out there working on accessible
versions of VR software? Is the instant messaging
option the best option currently available?

Thanks, Lori Bell
Mid-Illinois Talking Book Center






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