In order to accommodate the various reading needs of the public and provide a more convenient and friendly reading environment, the Macao Public Library under the Cultural Affairs Bureau has now introduced reading devices for the visually impaired at the Macao Central Library, Patane Library, Ilha Verde Library, and Taipa Library. The devices are easy to operate and allow readers to scan text and convert it into audio.

The new devices can assist those who have difficulty reading or who are visually impaired to reduce their reading handicap by “listening” to the written text, and to use the services and resources of the Macau Public Library in a more convenient manner. To gain a better understanding of users’ needs, the library has invited representatives from relevant organizations to try out the devices and relay their feedback, thereby enabling more people in need of assistance to enjoy reading.

The reading devices are easy to operate: they are equipped with large touch-control buttons and feature voice navigation prompts for every available step and option. Users only need to place a book or paper text under the lens of the device, press the scan button and the device will scan the text using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology. Users can then follow the voice prompts, press the play button and listen to the content through a set of earphones. Users may also adjust the speed and volume of the audio to accommodate their personal listening habits and achieve a more suitable listening effect.

To provide the public with a more inclusive friendly service and reading experience, reading devices for the visually impaired have been installed in four locations: Macao Central Library, Patane Library, Ilha Verde Library, and Taipa Library. For enquiries, please call 2856 7576 during office hours or visit the website of the Macao Public Library (www.library.gov.mo).