This video is in Russian...but it's about libraries, and subtitled!!

"Library opens Opportunities for Visually Impaired Journalist."

This video, considerately subtitled into English, tells the story of how a visually impaired journalist from the Ukraine is better able to do her job due to technology and training provided by her local library. She started out on a manual typewriter, and then was provided with a computer by her employer, but she still couldn't use it, as she had no computer skills.

Enter the library, with special voice software (JAWS) and user education classes for the visually-impaired.  The instructor was visually-impaired as well, which enhances instruction.  Now Galina (and her husband) are able to use the computer for work...ans presumably any thing else they want. 


Libraries are dedicated to giving access, among other things, to information.  Access to whomever needs it or wants it, within some parameters.  What I would like to highlight here is that sometimes, access really means access, a means to participate in multiple communities.  People with disabilities are often excluded from many things, including information, educational and vocational opportunities.  This video provides an example of how some seemingly simple user-education classes at a library, can address these needs.  Way to go, library superhero. 

I will also post this video on my other blog, also inspired by technology and community issues:DisabilityClips.  Check it out!!