A new multilingual robotic reader at the NSW State Library is reading to patrons in more than 15 languages.
The Readit Air automatic reader instantly captures text and reads it aloud in languages including English, Greek, Italian, French, Romanian and Spanish.
The device helps people with vision impairment or reading difficulties by detecting books, newspapers and other forms of texts in the various languages.
State Librarian and chief executive Alex Byrne said the reader complemented the library’s multicultural work both internally and with public libraries.
“This amazing new device will enhance the simple pleasure of reading, opening up our collections of books and resources in many languages,” Dr Byrne said.
The machine was launched as part of the library’s Multicultural March activities, which included public talks, international story time for children, a conversation with author Sami Shah and library tours in Mandarin, Hindi and Arabic.
There are plans to program the Readit Air with more languages in the future.
It is available to use for free in the Governor Marie Bashir Reading Room.
- Phone 9273-1414, www.sl.nsw.gov.au
