Greater digital accessibility for all
The ETH Library is offering new services to improve access to print media and electronic documents – added value for all ETH members. A feature on the ETH website also now gives all users a choice: read or be read to?
The ETH Library is offering two new services for greater accessibility: print materials or electronic documents can be converted into accessible PDF/UA formats on request. These are PDF documents that meet the Universal Accessibility (UA) standard, i.e. they are designed to be accessible. After this conversion, the previously inaccessible text content can be read using a so-called screen reader: software that outputs text information either acoustically or via a braille display, and is used by people with visual impairments. ‘AccessibleDocs’ is the name of the new conversion service that is available to all ETH members with disabilities.
Those who prefer to convert electronic documents into accessible formats themselves can use the ‘SensusAccess’ service: whether it's an audiobook, e-book, digital Braille or large print, the output format can be chosen as desired. This service is available to all ETH members via ETHZ login.
The use of SensusAccess shows that this service is mainly used to convert electronic documents into audiobooks or podcasts, which can then be listened to while on the go, for example while out for a walk. This is an example of how accessibility is necessary for some people, and can also be useful for everyone.
Further information about the offers and services can be found on the ETH Library's Accessibility website.
Reading or prefer to be read to?
Articles on the ETH website can now also be read out loud with just one click. A small button with a loudspeaker symbol above the text marks the new service. The ‘Read Aloud’ function is not intended to replace a screen reader. It is for those who want to hear text content instead of reading it without additional software.
Further information on the topic of digital accessibility can be found on the website of Corporate Communications: with tips for more accessibility in videos, explanations of universal design, instructions for writing Alternative Text, or an extensive range of courses and advice, all ETH members are supported in making their own communication accessible and barrier-free.
Barrier-Free at ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is committed to accessibility: over the course of the next few years, people with disabilities and those with special needs – whether students, lecturers, researchers, staff or visitors – are to benefit from greatly improved access to ETH buildings and services.
The proposed measures will be implemented in 14 sub-projects under three categories: “Construction, Building Usage and Architecture”, “Organisation and Culture” and “Technology, Communication and Teaching”.
For more information on the programme and the 14 sub-projects, visit the programme website and the new exhibition on the topic of “barrier-free” in the OCT building.
Note on the translation
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