Accessibility Definitions

Level Floor Surfaces includes both interior and exterior surfaces and ramps. The critial point is that there are no steps or stairs.

Computer Disks containing information can allow a recipient to utilize the disk to fit individual accommodation needs. For example, a person who utilizes large print can load the information into his or her own computer system and use magnification capability to enlarge the material to whatever font size is preferred. A person who uses a screen reader, either for a reading disability or for another reason, can load the information and have it read back at whatever speed and voice tone is desirable for that individual.

Large Print Materials are produced using a scalable, non-italic, sans serif font (such as Helvetica or Arial) in 14 to 18 point size with a space and a half between lines. For effective exhibit labels and displays, print should be a minimum of 24 points or larger, depending on the distance from which people must read the print.

Audio Description provides concise, objective descriptions of the settings, costumes, action, physical appearance, and body language of the characters in a play, film, video, or television program or the size, shape, colors, textures, composition, subject, and content of visual art or other exhibited materials. Audio description for performances and tours is usually delivered live and transmitted to listeners via infrared or FM assistive listening devices. Audio description for museums and exhibits is usually pre-recorded and available to visitors on audiocassette or via random-access digital playback systems.

Assistive Listening Devices are provided for assembly areas where audible communication is integral to the use of the space (concert and lecture halls, live theaters, movie theaters, meeting rooms). An assisted listening device minimizes background noise, reduces the effect of distance, and overrides poor acoustics. There are three basic types of assistive listening technologies: audio loop, FM systems, and infrared systems.

Real Time Captioning is the visual word display of spoken material as it is being presented.

A TTY (Telephone Typewriter) is a text-based telephone used by people with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate by phone. TTY's allow the user to communicate with other TTY users or people using a regular phone.

For additional information about any of these assistive technologies and services, please contact Catherine Lavenburg at (919) 807-6501.