Centre for barrier free communication
In the 21th century the DZB develops successively from a traditional library for the blind to a centre for barrier free communication. The modern communication technologies are at one hand a great chance for people with reading disabilities to access information independently from the help of sighted people. The Screenreader is a good example for the new possibilities. On the other hand a major part of printed and electronic documents as well as websites don’t accomplish the standards of accessibility. The DZB has undertaken the task to communicate the advantages of the new technologies to its users and to promote at the same time the standards of accessibility and barrier free (web) design to the sighted world. Two of our projects pursue these aims.
One is the 1999 established “Leipzig online support and information service” (LOUIS). Its mission is to provide useful and comprehensive information on how a blind or partially sighted person can take advantage of modern technology. Regularly information about new developments is published in the DZB-news. Or you can also directly ask our information specialist Ulrich Jander via phone or mail.
For example, LOUIS answers questions as such:
- Which electronic telephone directory is suitable for visually impaired people?
- How can blind computer users navigate the internet?
- How does telephone banking work for blind people?
- How does a DAISY-player function?
phone: +49-341-71 13 145
e-mail: 
ulrich.jander@dzb.de
The project BIK – the acronym stands for “barrier free information and communication” advises all interested people or companies on accessible web design and carries out web design projects. Our specialist in this area is Sebastian Brückner.
phone: +49-341-71 13 180
e-mail: sebastian.brueckner@dzb.de