Text-To-Speech Software
There are a number of software programs available which can be used to convert text on the computer screen into speech, thus allowing the user to listen to print information. Examples include:
- NaturalReader
- Balabolka
- TextAloud
- Read & Write Gold
- Narrator (included with Windows operating system)
- Universal Reader, PDF Equalizer both from Premier Assistive Technology
Cost varies, and several of the programs have a basic version that is free which can be downloaded from the Internet. New products and product upgrade occur all the time.
Some of the programs provide the option to purchase additional voices with varying qualities of speech and natural sound. The following website offers demos of numerous voices from several different companies: http://nextup.com/TextAloud/SpeechEngine/voices.html
Resources for Alternative Format Text
To comply with copyright law, publishers have been and are continuing to request proof of purchase of a print copy of textbooks prior to releasing digital files to University staff for student use. If an accessible version of your book can be purchased in the format you need, you can bypass the process of requesting an alternative format version through the Department of Learning Success.
Listed below are several sites that provide catalogs of text in alternative formats:
Amazon www.amazon.com
CourseSmart www.coursesmart.com
Audible www.audible.com
eBooks www.ebooks.com
Learning Alley www.learningally.org
Bookshare www.bookshare.org
Library of Congress www.loc.gov
Access Text Network www.accesstext.org
- Quick Links
- ATN Accessible Textbook Finder