Introduces new technologies that provide instant translation of print materials in three general categories: optical to tactile conversion of print, optical to braille conversion, and optical to speech. Talking books, voice indexing, new braille technologies, print to braille, and optical print enlargement are highlighted. A list of sources is…

This overview of the development of a system of library services for the blind in one union republic of the USSR describes the centralized network of special libraries which serve as the focal point of systems providing services at the regional and local levels, and suggests some possible future developments. (RAA)

Outlines the history of the National Library Service (NLS) for the blind and physically handicapped. The nature of the collection and services provided are discussed, including formats available (such as large print, flexible disk, audio cassette, braille); monthly and bimonthly publications announcing available texts; application procedures for…

Describes several programs that were developed by staff at the Cleveland (Ohio) Public Library to be accessible to users with disabilities. Highlights include a Braille reading program; sensory garden; poetry club; book club based on talking books; wheelchair athletics; touching museum artifacts; and a mobile library for users who could not visit…

Presents an overview of the recent developments in communications and information technologies for the blind and physically handicapped, with particular emphasis on braille, recorded books, and reading machines. (CWM)

Describes services available through the National Library Service (NLS), a division of the Library of Congress that provides books on cassette, disc, or in braille for students with learning disabilities and/or visual impairments. The history of the NLS is described, and cooperation with regional libraries is explained. (LRW)

Forty visually impaired college students and older people were surveyed concerning improvements in Norway's educational system. The survey focused on attendance at mainstreamed or special schools, counseling services, braille books and talking books, and the need for a personal reader. (Author/JDD)

Outlines existing library materials and services for blind students in Botswana, describes efforts made in the past to educate blind persons, and presents a proposal for the development of an educational library service for the blind at the primary, secondary, and university levels. (Author/CLB)

A mother of an adolescent daughter with blindness and learning disabilities focuses on how she helped her daughter improve reading and writing skills by finding a meaningful purpose for those skills in daily life. This article discusses early signs of learning problems, the learning environment, talking books, books in braille, technology,…