Vision Australia’s online library content can now be delivered to people without an internet connection. This breakthrough solution bundles 3G (wireless broadband) into existing (DAISY) players that people are already familiar with.
The player uses 3G to connect directly to Vision Australia’s i-access® online library where is has access to a wide range of books, newspapers, magazines and other topical information.
Simple to use, the device does not need a computer or internet connection, making it ideal for users who cannot afford or who are not confident to use other online devices.
Currently, Vision Australia’s Accessible Information Solutions provides content to approximately 16,000 people across Australia.
The material is typically distributed on compact disc via traditional post, which can take up to several days. The new delivery system offers immediate access at any location. It also gives users access to daily newspapers and provides timely delivery of newsletters and important alerts.
For Vision Australia it means reduced operational costs and of course the environmental benefits of not producing CD’s and single use cardboard envelopes.
This project has been made possible through two strategic partnerships:
- Shinano Kenshi (Plextor) in Japan worked closely with Vision Australia in the design and adaptation of playback devices to enable them to work with a 3G module.
- Optus provided affordable 3G Internet access with the Optus mobile network. And, employees of Optus volunteered to assist with the player conversions.
As a first step towards moving services to an online environment, a 12 month project was initiated in February 2014 to deploy 3,000 of the new 3G DAISY players to members of Vision Australia’s Library and Information Service.
For further information on this exciting project or to sign up for a 3G enabled player please contact Vision Australia’s Library and Information Service on 1800 005 965.
Read Lesley’s story here.
Find out more and join Vision Australia’s Library Service at Texpo in Sydney.