Adaptive Technology Lab
The Adaptive Technology Lab at the KDL Service & Meeting Center is equipped with a wide range of assistive technologies that support independence, accessibility, and inclusion for patrons with visual, physical and learning disabilities.
The Lab is available by appointment Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30PM for up to 3 hours at a time. Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance. Appointments can be made online or by calling 616-784-2007.
What is Available:
- Accessible Workstation – Ergonomic and height-adjustable for comfort and ease of use.
- Large Monitor Display – Enhances visibility and reduces eye strain.
- Large Print Keyboard & Trackball Mouse – High-contrast keys and an easy-to-use mouse alternative.
- One-Handed Keyboard – Designed for users who type with one hand.
- b.Note 40-Cell Braille Display – A refreshable Braille device for digital content.
- SuperNova Screen Reader & Magnification Software – Offers speech output and screen magnification.
- Duxbury Braille Translation Software – Converts text into Braille.
- SWIFT Braille Integration with Microsoft Word – Seamlessly translate Word documents into Braille.
- TactileView Software – Create tactile graphics for educational or personal use.
- BrailleTrac Embosser – Print high-quality Braille documents and tactile graphics.
- Connect & View OCR Camera – Magnify and read printed materials aloud using OCR.
KDL Public Computers
Public computers at KDL branches have some built-in accessibility features. Please ask staff for assistance to enable Ease of Access options such as Windows Magnifier or Narrator, adjust screen resolution or expand internet text size.
Each Kent District Library branch is also equipped with a selection of handheld magnifiers and reading glasses for use within the library.
Beyond Books Accessibility Tools
The KDL Beyond Books Collection features several accessible gadgets and tools, such as reading pens, adaptive gaming controllers and portable video magnifiers. These items are available to check out with a Kent District Library card.