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Electronic Readers (Text-to-Speech) Applications

Text-to-Speech (Electronic Reader) applications:

    • Reads from PDFs, Microsoft programs, emails, web pages etc. Natural Reader also has an optimal character recognition (OCR) program which, when used with a scanner, can convert printed characters into digital text.
  • Central Access Reader (CAR)
    • Free and powerful reader developed by Central Washington University students. CAR will read MS Word documents, math and logic equations, saves files as MP3s, and offers customizable text and background features.
    • Free and versatile program which works with a multitude of languages. Onscreen text may be saved as audio files with customizable voice options.
  • Website Add-ons
    • Available on web browsers like Chrome, Edge, Internet ºìÐÓ¶ÌÊÓƵ, and Firefox. Various add-ons available (e.g., Talkie is available on Chrome and Firefox).
  • reader
    • Reads and interacts with PDFs. You can alter settings so you activate both highlighting features as well as the built-in text-to-speech capabilities.
  • Set up ()
  • Set up
    • If the language you are reading is not English, then open System Preferences, click "Dictation & Speech," and click on the drop down menu next to System Voice. Click "customize," and select a voice for the language you are reading.
    • Free reader available on iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad.
    • Free reader available on iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad.
    • Free reader with text-to-speech capabilities on Android devices.

EPUB Reader applications:

EPUB is a type of file that many alternative text books are created into instead of a PDF or other file type. EPUB files are set up to be compatible to a variety of text-to-speech applications as well as allowing for other interactive capabilities with a text.

    • Free with Windows 10; choice of voice and reading speed; take notes, highlight, and bookmark in browser; 6 fonts available (not dyslexia or comic sans font)
    • Free for U.S. students who qualify; AES has a license for this application and can assist you in determining if you qualify for an individual account
    • Available on any device, on or offline; variety of interactive capabilities with text; free trial, then will cost
    • Available on Google Chrome; free trial, then will cost
    • Available on any device; functions include study tools, read aloud, search & navigation, to name a few; application is free but must purchase electronic textbooks
    • Source to borrow ebooks and audiobooks for free through local public library or school

Please note that these applications may or may not be free. If you discover any other resources that you think Accessible Education Services should include in this list, please do not hesitate to contact us at accessible-info@willamette.edu or at 503-370-6737.

ºìÐÓ¶ÌÊÓƵ University

Accessible Education Services

Salem Campus

Address
Smullin 155
ºìÐÓ¶ÌÊÓƵ University
900 State Street
Salem Oregon 97301 U.S.A.

Portland Campus

Address
Room 270
Pacific Northwest College of Art
511 NW Broadway
Portland Oregon 97227 U.S.A.