Artificial Intelligence Powered Tools for People who are Blind Users in Libraries – An Overview to Guide Special Users by the Librarians

Authors-Dr. Stephen. G, Mr. Asik Ikbal

Abstract- Blind people access information through a variety of assistive technologies, such as screen readers, Braille displays, and audiobooks. Braille displays are devices that convert text into Braille, a system of raised dots that can be read by touch. Screen readers are software programs that read text on a computer or mobile device aloud, allowing blind users to access websites, documents, and other digital content. Blind people can use search engines (e.g., Google) to find information using screen reader software that works with search engines. Some screen readers also have built-in support for Google search, allowing users to perform a search and navigate the results directly within the screen reader software. Since electricity, artificial intelligence (AI) has been one of the most revolutionary technologies (Ng, 2018). The world as we know it was changed by electricity, which also enabled advancements in other sectors including manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. In a similar vein, industry, healthcare, education, and finance have all benefited from AI and machine learning (ML) solutions. Information has always been guarded by libraries. Misinformation has become rife as AI takes over and libraries are unwilling to adapt. To find basic answers, users rely on voice assistants such as Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple Siri. The user has few options because these private systems are created and maintained by massive technology companies, and the AI models they employ are opaque. This paper explained about library services to the visually impaired users, AI in libraries, various AI tools/apps for blind users and how to be used etc.

DOI: /10.61463/ijset.vol.11.issue6.106