Hi, my name is Holly.  I am one of the library technicians in the Durham Tech Campus Library.  You’ll usually see me at the desk in the evenings and most Saturdays.

If you have been in the library in the evenings or on Saturdays, you may have noticed that there is a tiny laptop that sits near the computers at the circulation desk.

This little computer is called an Interpretype.  I am hard of hearing, so I use this device to communicate with people at the desk more efficiently.  People with hearing loss have more difficulty filtering out all of the unnecessary noise, like typing, copy machines, talking, etc.  Often people who speak fast or have accents are more challenging to hear as well.

The Interpretype is simple to use as long as you are familiar with a computer and with instant messaging.  If not, then there’s always the option to just write down your request.

Steps for Using the Interpretype

1. Hit the ENTER key first so that the question will go into the correct text box.

2. Type your question.  Some questions only require simple phrases like “need change”, or “math 70.”

3. Your question will show up on my computer and I will respond accordingly.

The Interpretype is also available for any library patrons who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have any other communication barriers that can be overcome by using this device.

Help Spread the Word…

Help me serve you better by spreading the word.  The more people who are familiar with how the device works, the more quickly I can provide assistance.

For More Information

If you’d like to know more about the Interpretype and how it works, visit the official website at: http://www.interpretype.com/