Most screen reading software cannot read Adobe PDF files, which are increasingly common on the web. Adobe has addressed this accessability issue with Access Adobe, software which converts PDF files to simple HTML or ASCII text. The University Library has Access Adobe set up on the PC designated for use by persons with disabilities. Many PDF files can be read with the JAWS screen reading software and Adobe Acrobat and Access working together.

To utilize Access Adobe, when the file you want read is in Adobe Acrobat, press CONTROL+5. This brings up the PDF file in a simple text format. Initiate the read command of your screen reading software. For JAWS, press INSERT+DOWN ARROW.

For assistance with using Access Adobe within the University Library, contact Kabel Nathan Stanwicks, Coordinator for Services to Persons with Disabilities.

To download Access Adobe for use on your own PC, click here to go to the Access Adobe web site.