Assistive technology rooms

These rooms have assistive software and adaptable workstations. They support people with print-based and learning disabilities.

Not sure how to use the hardware or software? Book an appointment for a tutorial.

Locations

  • Mearns – McPherson Library: main floor, rooms 113e and 113f
  • Law Library: main floor, room 172

Availability

The rooms are open to all UVic students, faculty, and staff during library hours. People who need to use specialized technology or adaptable equipment have priority.

Assistive technology rooms cannot be pre-booked. Each room has multiple workstations for all patrons to share.

Software

Available software includes:

  • ABBYY Fine Reader
  • Dragon Naturally Speaking Professional
  • Equatio
  • JAWS
  • Kurzweil 1000
  • Kurzweil 3000
  • Kurzweil 3000 Read The Web extension for Google Chrome
  • MS Office productivity software
  • NVDA
  • PaperCut
  • Read&Write extension for Google Chrome
  • Respondus LockDown Browser

Hardware

Available external hardware devices include:

  • Desktop microphone
  • Keyboard, fully split
  • Keyboard, partially split
  • Screen glare filter
  • Tablet for writing/drawing
  • Trackball mouse
  • Vertical mouse, left-handed
  • Vertical mouse, right-handed
  • Webcam

Guidelines

Users of the assistive technology rooms should follow the room guidelines:

  • Respect that the rooms are shared spaces
  • Do not move or remove furniture and signs
  • Do not unplug or adjust equipment without asking staff

Additional support

The CAL Adaptive Technology program supports students registered with CAL to find and use the right technology to mitigate disability-related barriers.