LISTSERV mailing list manager LISTSERV 16.0

Help for NLS-REPORTS Archives


NLS-REPORTS Archives

NLS-REPORTS Archives


[email protected]


View:

Message:

[

First

|

Previous

|

Next

|

Last

]

By Topic:

[

First

|

Previous

|

Next

|

Last

]

By Author:

[

First

|

Previous

|

Next

|

Last

]

Font:

Proportional Font

LISTSERV Archives

LISTSERV Archives

NLS-REPORTS Home

NLS-REPORTS Home

NLS-REPORTS  July 2004

NLS-REPORTS July 2004

Subject:

Machines and Accessories Report No. 04-02

From:

NLSBPH <[log in to unmask]>

Reply-To:

NLS Documents for Network Libraries <[log in to unmask]>

Date:

Tue, 13 Jul 2004 15:34:27 -0400

Content-Type:

TEXT/PLAIN

Parts/Attachments:

Parts/Attachments

TEXT/PLAIN (322 lines)

        Machines and Accessories Report No. 04-02


        Date: July 9, 2004



        Subject: National Audio Equipment Advisory Committee recommendations and
        NLS responses, 2004



        Attached are the recommendations made by the National Audio Equipment
        Advisory Committee members at the annual meeting held March 31 - April 2, 2004.
        Following each recommendation is a response by NLS.

        The following members attended the meeting:

        Consumer representatives

        American Council of the Blind                Barry Levine
        Blinded Veterans Association                 Frank Merendino
        National Federation of the Blind                  Aloma Bouma
        Midlands Region                              Irwin Hott
        Southern Region                              Linda Broady-Myers

        Network library representatives

        Midlands Region                              Robert Jones
        Northern Region                              Richard Riddell
        Southern Region                              Teresa Lacy
        Western Region                               Bonnie Olson

        TelecomPioneers representatives

        Midlands Region                              Jerry Adamson
        Northern Region                              Darrell Teske
        Southern Region                              Joseph Bernal
        Western Region                               Stephen Austin

        Elfun representative                         Robert Smith



        ____________________________________________________________________
     2004 National Audio Equipment Advisory Committee Recommendations
     from Consumers and NLS Responses

     The consumers recommend that:

     Digital audio magazine issues

     1.   The list of selectable articles be presented as a nested list or other
     easily navigable structure that does not require the screen reader user to
     enable a special mode.

     NLS response (Production Control):

     This request, along with others regarding digital audio magazines, will be
     included in the list of feedback items from pilot testers for consideration in
     the design of future web-magazine distribution systems.

     2.   Each article listed include both the reading time and file size in
     addition to the article title.

     NLS response (Production Control):

     These two items are now listed on the screen of the pilot test.

     3.   The increment skip time in the player be user-definable.

     NLS response (Engineering):


     We will do this and will check user satisfaction with usability testing.

     4.   Markup in magazine articles be to the paragraph level.

     NLS response (Production Control):

     This item will be included in consideration of feedback items from
     pilot testers.

     5.   A  mechanism be developed allowing the user to be able to save
     individual articles and name them with human recognizable names, perhaps
     by means of a save feature in the player.


     NLS response (Production Control):

     This suggestion will be added to the list of desirable features in the
     design/selection of the software player.

     6.   The unpack tool be incorporated into the player so the whole process
     is as transparent to the user as possible.

     NLS response (Production Control):

     This suggestion will be added to the list of desirable features in the
     design/selection of the software player.

     General issues

     7.   NLS develop a guideline for studios to help determine when web
     addresses should be spelled or spoken as words.

     NLS response (Quality Assurance):

     NLS recording studios have instructions to spell web addresses if there
     could be any confusion between the spoken text and the print.  Thus
     "2cows.com" would be spelled including the fact that the address contains a
     numeral.  However, "consumerreports.com"
     would be spoken, not spelled.  Extensions such as ".com", ".org",     and
     ".gov" are spoken.

     8.   NLS make every effort to recruit a physically handicapped consumer
     to serve on this committee.

     NLS response (Consumer Relations Officer):

     An appropriate organization of physically handicapped consumers will be
     identified and an invitation will be sent at the same time that consumer
     organizations of blind persons are contacted.  We note, however, that
     previous efforts to secure the participation of a physically handicapped
     person have been unsuccessful.

     9.   Consumer members of this committee would like to be included early
     in any evaluations and tests of equipment and services related to digital
     materials.

     NLS response (Consumer Relations Officer):

     NLS considers consumer participation in the design process to be essential.
     The player design solicitation specifically requires usability tests by all
     users:  first and foremost, patrons, then librarians as well as volunteer repair
     persons.  This will be an iterative process spanning prototyping and field
     tests during the next several years.  For near-term evaluations, interested
     consumers have been added to the web-magazine pilot.  Committee
     members will be considered for inclusion in all evaluations and tests.

     Logistic considerations

     10.  NLS provide an outdoor trash can so that dog guide users can
     responsibly clean up after their dogs.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     We have requested that the Administrative Section alert maintenance
     providers to position adequate facilities.

     11.  NLS ensure that the recommended hotel has braille and large-print
     menus.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     We will ask the hotel to provide braille and large-print menus.

     12.  All materials and demonstrations made available before and during
     committee meetings be provided in accessible format.  This would include
     the use of a screen reader for any demonstration of computer-related items
     such as software packages or web sites.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     We will do this.
     1.   We recommend that NLS continue to investigate alternative methods
     of audiobook delivery, such as Internet, cable, satellite, and telephone lines.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     NLS currently does this through our web-magazine pilot project.  Plans for
     expansion of the project to more titles and more patrons are in preparation.
     Also, a contract for design of a distribution system is to be awarded during
     2004.  The design will include some of the recommended topics, such as
     electronic delivery to distribution centers.  NLS long-term planning includes
     consideration of all of the recommended delivery means.

     2.   We recommend that NLS continue to develop a parts ordering system
     for use by librarians and repair personnel.

     NLS response (Inventory Management Section):

     We will do this.

     3.   We recommend that NLS continue with the idea of the user survey
     and move towards a follow-up study that would help with the transition
     process into digital.

     NLS response (Consumer Relations Officer ):

     It is anticipated that the results of the 2003 NLS Patron Survey will provide
     guidance through the transition process of the next few years.  Smaller,
     more targeted efforts are being considered to provide specific direction on
     cognitive, dexterity, and manipulation issues.

     4.  We recommend that NLS continue to produce books on cassette
     through the period of conversion to digital talking books, so that readers'
     needs are met.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     NLS will do this.  A transition study is presently in progress.  The study will
     include recommendations for ending production of cassette recordings and
     cassette players.

     5.   We recommend that NLS study the feasibility and costs involved in
     the transcription of older books recorded on cassette and record for
      the digital talking book program.

     NLS response (Production Control):

     This project is already underway.  Four contracts were issued in 2004 to
     begin the analog-to-digital (A-D) conversion.  The goal is to have a
     collection of approximately 10,000 A-D converted titles.

     6.   We recommend that NLS make available digital talking-book players
      in a quantity large enough to meet the demand of patrons for the transition
     from cassette to the digital talking book program.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     NLS will do this.  The first production quantity will depend on
     recommendations from the transition study mentioned above, the budget,
     and the economies of scale found in production negotiations.  Estimates at
     this time are about 50,000 units in 2008 and 250,000 in each following year
     until the quantity recommended by the transition study is available.
     7.   We encourage that NLS continue to draft a version of the C-1 Service
     Manual to be placed on the NLS web site so that the current and updated
     issues are easily accessible to the regional libraries, subregional libraries,
     and repair agencies.

     NLS response (Equipment Repair Officer):

     We will do this.

     8.   We would like to commend the NLS staff for responding positively to
     all of the recommendations for the design of the digital talking book player
     and considering the various options in their design process.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     Consumer recommendations are NLS's number one priority.

     9.   We recommend that NLS undertake various ways to promote and
     publicize the digital talking book program.

     NLS response (Publications and Media):

     NLS has promoted and publicized the digital talking book program through
     "Planning for the Future, July 1998"; "Progress to Date, May 2002";
     "Frequently Asked Questions about Digital Books"; and
     __Current Strategic Business Plans for the Implementation of Digital
     Systems,__ December 2003, as well as numerous papers and presenta-tions.
     In addition, most of these documents are available on the NLS web site
     <www.loc.gov/nls>.  Many newspapers have carried articles on the digital
     effort, including major feature stories in the__ Washington Post__ and the
     __Washington Times.__  NLS has made numerous press releases and
     presentations to national and regional audiences.
     10.  We recommend that NLS continue to investigate the option of
     providing transportation from not only NLS to the hotel, but also from the
     hotel to NLS.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     We have investigated this, including an experimental trip from the hotel to
     NLS.  Our conclusion is that the arrangement would not be the most
     convenient for members.  Recommend members use cabs, for which they
     are reimbursed.

     11.  We would like to thank John Cookson and the NLS staff for
     presenting another informative and challenging NAEAC meeting.

     NLS response (Engineering):

     You are welcome.
     Volunteer repair recommendations NAEAC 2004

     1.   We endorse the continued pursuit of a solution to the problem of
     mislabeling in repaired and unrepaired machine shipments to and from
     MSCW.

     NLS response (Equipment Control Officer):

     NLS will propose a trial of  color-coded labeling at the 2004 national
     conference.

     2.   We concur that the CBM repair log need no longer be returned to
     NLS for data gathering, but since some shops use the form for internal
     records we suggest that it be continued with the following modifications:

     Reduce the form to two copies;
     Change the instructions to read:  "Top page for local records
     (optional), bottom page for supplying agency (optional)."

     NLS response (Equipment Repair Officer):

     We will do this.

     3.   We recommend the upcoming web-based parts ordering system
     incorporate an item selection page that is based on the diagrams, allowing
     parts identification and selection from those drawings.

     NLS response (Inventory Management):

     We will try to do this.
     4.   We recommend NLS modify the drive kit by eliminating the pressure
     roller spring from the package.  Experience shows that it is a durable part
     that does not need to be replaced with the rest of the drive parts.

     NLS response (Equipment Repair Officer):

     We will do this.

     5.   We wish to thank Carolyn Sung for agreeing to start direct
     acknowledgment of e-mail-based parts orders on April 15.  We understand
     that acknowledgment of fax orders must be reserved for customers who
     need a specific acknowledgment.

     NLS response (Chief, Network Division):

     You are welcome.

Top of Message | Previous Page | Permalink

Advanced Options


Options

Log In

Log In

Get Password

Get Password


Search Archives

Search Archives


Subscribe or Unsubscribe

Subscribe or Unsubscribe


Archives

March 2024
February 2024
January 2024
December 2023
November 2023
October 2023
September 2023
August 2023
July 2023
June 2023
May 2023
April 2023
March 2023
February 2023
January 2023
December 2022
November 2022
October 2022
September 2022
August 2022
July 2022
June 2022
May 2022
April 2022
March 2022
February 2022
January 2022
December 2021
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
September 2019
August 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
December 2018
November 2018
October 2018
September 2018
August 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
March 2018
February 2018
January 2018
December 2017
November 2017
October 2017
September 2017
August 2017
July 2017
June 2017
May 2017
April 2017
March 2017
February 2017
January 2017
December 2016
November 2016
October 2016
September 2016
August 2016
July 2016
June 2016
May 2016
April 2016
March 2016
February 2016
January 2016
December 2015
November 2015
October 2015
September 2015
August 2015
July 2015
June 2015
May 2015
April 2015
March 2015
February 2015
January 2015
December 2014
November 2014
October 2014
September 2014
August 2014
July 2014
June 2014
May 2014
April 2014
March 2014
February 2014
January 2014
December 2013
November 2013
October 2013
September 2013
August 2013
July 2013
June 2013
May 2013
April 2013
March 2013
February 2013
January 2013
December 2012
November 2012
October 2012
September 2012
August 2012
July 2012
June 2012
May 2012
April 2012
March 2012
February 2012
January 2012
December 2011
November 2011
October 2011
September 2011
August 2011
July 2011
June 2011
May 2011
April 2011
March 2011
February 2011
January 2011
December 2010
November 2010
October 2010
September 2010
August 2010
July 2010
June 2010
May 2010
April 2010
March 2010
February 2010
January 2010
December 2009
November 2009
October 2009
September 2009
August 2009
July 2009
June 2009
May 2009
April 2009
March 2009
February 2009
January 2009
December 2008
November 2008
October 2008
September 2008
August 2008
July 2008
June 2008
May 2008
April 2008
March 2008
February 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005
April 2005
March 2005
February 2005
January 2005
December 2004
November 2004
October 2004
September 2004
August 2004
July 2004
June 2004
May 2004
April 2004
March 2004
February 2004
January 2004
December 2003
November 2003
October 2003
September 2003
August 2003
July 2003
June 2003
May 2003
April 2003
March 2003
February 2003
January 2003
December 2002
November 2002
October 2002
September 2002
August 2002
July 2002
June 2002
May 2002
April 2002
March 2002
February 2002
January 2002
December 2001
November 2001
October 2001
September 2001
August 2001
July 2001
June 2001
May 2001
April 2001
March 2001
February 2001
January 2001
December 2000
November 2000
October 2000
September 2000
August 2000
July 2000
June 2000
May 2000
April 2000
March 2000
February 2000
January 2000
December 1999
November 1999
October 1999
September 1999
August 1999
July 1999
June 1999
May 1999
April 1999
March 1999
February 1999
January 1999
December 1998
November 1998
October 1998
September 1998
August 1998
July 1998
June 1998
May 1998
April 1998
March 1998
February 1998
January 1998
December 1997
November 1997
October 1997
September 1997
August 1997
July 1997
June 1997
May 1997
April 1997
March 1997
February 1997
January 1997

ATOM RSS1 RSS2



LISTSERV.LOC.GOV

CataList Email List Search Powered by the LISTSERV Email List Manager