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Do you have trouble reading the text on a conventional computer screen? Is English not your first language, or would you like to create documents using a non-English font? If so, we'll soon have something to help.

In a week or so, you'll see a special new computer in the library, next to the Reference desk. This computer was purchased through an agreement between the San Juan Island Library, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Gateway Corporation. This particular configuration is available only to libraries participating in this program with the Gates Foundation.

The computer will have a whole range of features that make it easier to use for special populations. Enhancements like a large print option and a magnifier feature controlled by the mouse will assist people with difficulty reading the screen. In addition, a language option allows the user to change the default language of the operating system, the Internet browser and the word processor. Most major languages are available, including those with non-English fonts such as the Cyrillic alphabet or Asian characters. We will even have a Spanish-language keyboard that can be attached upon request.

The hardware just arrived and is in boxes in the back room; the staff will be trained in its setup and use in a few days, and after that it will be available for public use. Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for everyone in the library's district to find the information they need. We hope this new equipment will make that possible for some of you. . Please ask any staff member for a "test drive" - we'd be happy to take you for a spin!

Lauren Stara
Director, San Juan Island Library
phone number 360.378.2798
e-mail lstara@sjlib.org

news @sanjuanislander.com

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Gates, Gateway make viewing computer screen easier