Content in library databases is commonly presented in both HTML and PDF formats. 

Many databases provide read-aloud options for HTML content, or browser features can be used to read the text.

In contrast, many features in PDFs interfere with accessibility including security features and document structure. Not all PDFs can be read aloud.

A screen reader is assistive technology that converts text and images displayed on the screen into speech or braille output. This enables users to engage non-visually with the content.

Read-aloud options

Windows and Macs

Read & Write toolbar is available for Bond students and staff to download. In addition to text-to-speech, it offers text-to-audio file and translation.

Details and instructions

Mobile devices

Screen readers are included in most devices' operating systems. The features can be turned on in the settings.

Android

• Turn on TalkBack

Apple

• Turn on and practice VoiceOver on iPhone
• Use Siri to listen to a webpage in Safari on iPhone
• Turn on and practice VoiceOver on iPad
• VoiceOver User Guide for Mac

Web browsers

• Microsoft Edge Read aloud: Now with PDF support
• Chrome: Read Aloud: A Text to Speech Voice Reader
• Firefox: Read Aloud: A Text to Speech Voice Reader

PDF read-aloud tools

For PDFs that meet accessibility standards, both Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader have read-aloud functions.

These can be turned on in Preferences, and a reading category is selected. Options can be adjusted for volume, default voice and speech attributes.

To start reading aloud, select view then read out loud from the menu.