Assistive Technology
An assistive technology device is any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. This broad definition means that assistive technology is anything that helps someone do something they couldn’t do because of a disability or functional limitation.
Adaptive Equipment
Adaptive equipment is a subcategory of assistive technology; it refers to something specifically designed for people with disabilities, including:
- iPads
- Magnifiers
- Screenreaders
- Braille watches
- Talking clocks and calculators
- Alexa
Resources
Assistive Technology Industry Association
BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) is a free library service of downloadable braille and audio reading material for residents of the United States and U.S. citizens living abroad who are unable to read or use standard printed material because of visual or physical disabilities. BARD provides access to thousands of special-format books, magazines, and music scores. This service is only available to NLS/LBPD patrons.
Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) enhances the lives of all Marylanders with disabilities, older Marylanders, and their families by providing access to assistive technology (AT) devices and services.
MDTAP offers a variety of services including assistive technology libraries across the state, AT demonstrations, consultations, short-term device loans, a high-tech AT Reuse Center (to access gently used equipment for free), trainings, webinars, and a low-interest financial loan program. We also provide one-on-one information & referral to help consumers find needed disability-related services:
- Accessible Gaming Kits Available for Loan! Nintendo Switch, XBox 1, PS4, TVs, adapted controllers/switchers, and more! To request to borrow a gaming kit for your event, email mdtap.general@maryland.gov.
- Download a copy of the Accessible Gaming Event Playbook – a step by step guide to hosting a gaming event. Includes what to prep for before, during, and after the event.
- For more information, visit us at www.mdtap.org or email MDTAP.General@maryland.gov.
Maryland State Library Agency (MSLA) is an independent agency. We provide strategic leadership, resources, and programmatic support to Maryland libraries to transform lives. As the state library agency for Maryland, the Maryland State Library Agency administers State and Federal funds to support Maryland libraries in their mission to offer outstanding resources, programs, and excellent customer service. Responsibilities include oversight of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled; Maryland’s Public Libraries; the State Library Network; the Library Capital Grants Programs; and the Deaf Culture Digital Library.
Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled is an independent agency, which provides strategic leadership, resources, and programmatic support to Maryland libraries to transform lives.
National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled/Library of Congress is a free braille and talking book library service for people with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical, perceptual, or reading disability that prevents them from using regular print materials.
