What is it?
Bookshare is an online library that provides accessible digital books for individuals with print disabilities. This vast collection includes a wide range of titles, from textbooks to bestsellers, available in formats such as audio, braille, and large print. Users with visual impairments, learning disabilities, or physical disabilities that affect their ability to read traditional print materials can access Bookshare's extensive catalog through specialized reading tools and assistive technology devices.
How to use it?
To use Bookshare, individuals first need to sign up for a membership, which typically requires documentation of a print disability. Once registered, users can access the Bookshare website or mobile app to search for and download digital books in accessible formats. Users can browse the extensive catalog by title, author, genre, or keyword, and then select the desired book to download. Bookshare offers various formats, including audio, braille, and large print, to accommodate different reading needs. Users can then access the downloaded books using compatible reading apps or devices, such as screen readers, braille displays, or specialized e-readers.
Why use it?
Bookshare offers numerous benefits for individuals with print disabilities, making it an important resource for accessing a wide range of reading materials. By providing accessible digital books in formats such as audio, braille, and large print, Bookshare ensures that individuals with visual impairments, learning disabilities, or physical disabilities that affect their ability to read traditional print materials can enjoy equitable access to literature and educational resources. This inclusivity promotes independence, fosters a love of reading, and supports academic and professional success by providing essential materials in formats tailored to individual needs. Moreover, Bookshare's extensive catalog spans various genres and subjects, catering to diverse interests and learning preferences. Overall, Bookshare empowers individuals to overcome barriers to reading and participate fully in educational, professional, and recreational activities.
