C&CS Presents: Accessibility Awareness and Technologies with Patty Petronello and Scott Meneely, Aug 16 at 11am

Accessibility Awareness and Technologies in the Library

with Patricia Petronello and Scott Meneely

from the

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

Aug 16 (Thursday) at 11 am

Zoom session: Register here for the link!

Library workers experience on a daily basis the variety of ways in which patrons interact with their environment according to their various abilities, preferences, and circumstances.  We are particularly concerned with the ways in which they most readily receive, process, and transmit information, how we can make our programming relevant and accessible to them, and what kinds of human interactions, physical accommodations, and technologies we can bring to bear to facilitate these transactions.

Scott and Patty will provide information and training for smartphone, tablet, and computer accessibility options (voiceover/screen readers, magnification, enlarged fonts, etc.), which are applicable to any operating system (iOS, Android), and any kind of device.  This includes setting up the devices, teaching the basic gestures of the different accessible features, and downloading and learning how to navigate an app.

 The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (LBPH) is a network library of the National Library Service of the Library of Congress.  They offer free public library services to Pennsylvania residents who have difficulty reading standard print materials because of a visual, physical, or reading disability.  Services include digital audiobooks and downloads, large print books, reader advisory, accessible programming, and assistive technology training.

Scott Meneely has been working in libraries in various capacities since 2005.  He has provided training to patrons in Microsoft Office, Job Seeking Skills, and Accessible Technology.  He currently works at the Carnegie Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and is learning daily about the vast array of assistive technology that has the potential to improve the lives of our patrons.

Patty Petronello has been working in the Carnegie Library system for almost five years.  Although she has worked in multiple positions, she has always assisted patrons with technology in some capacity, from résumé building and cover letters to computer program explanations and cell phone help.  In the eight months that Patty has worked for LBPH she has expanded her expertise to include various types of assistive technologies.  She continues to build her assistive tech knowledge in the hope that by sharing it she will help to enhance the lives of our patrons in meaningful ways.