This project, begun in 2008, is funding the development of an open-source, browser-based DAISY reader that will enable people with print disabilities to read accessible text using Firefox. Future plans include enhancements beyond traditional accessibility functions for a more full, rich web experience for those with visual impairments.
Grant Summary
- 2009: 25,000
- 2008: 25,000
- Focus:Accessiblity
- Recipient: Benetech
- Location: United States
More Information
Benetech operates their BookShare site to provide books and other publications designed to be accessible to readers with print disabilities (e.g., people who have impaired vision, dyslexia, or other conditions); the books are provided in DAISY format as text-only books, audio books, or text books with accompanying audio. DAISY e-book readers have traditionally been stand-alone desktop applications, which can make reading e-books online awkward. In 2008 the Mozilla Foundation provided a $38,000 grant to Benetech to support development of a Firefox extension to read DAISY books within the browser itself. The grant was matched by an additional $38,000 from Benetech. The extension's source code (licensed under the same terms as Mozilla code) is currently available for public download as a release candidate.
Benetech
Benetech is a corporation dedicated to leveraging technology innovation and business expertise to solve unmet social needs. Among their many projects is Bookshare, the world's largest accessible digital library of scanned material.
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