Accessible Information at NU Library

Some of our databases do not have their own built-in accessibility features, or only offer them on some articles. You can try using these free tools with those databases.

NVAccess Screen Reader (software download)

• for Windows operating system
• free and open source
• supports web browsers, PDF readers, email clients, and other software
• supports refreshable braille displays
• Directions: User Guide

NaturalReader (software download / website)

• for Windows and Mac (macOS) operating systems
• supports pdf, docx, txt, epub and more
• free to download or use online, with paid versions offering more features

Orca (software download)

• for Linux operating system
• free and open source
• supports web browsers and other software
• supports refreshable braille displays
• Directions: User Guide

VoiceOver (built-in feature)

• for macOS and iOS operating systems
• built-in on all Mac/Apple devices
• supports web browsers and other software
• supports refreshable braille displays
• Directions: User Guide

Google Translate (website)

• Can translate pasted text or uploaded documents

Google Translate (Chrome browser extension)

• Can translate the entire webpage you're viewing, or just the text you highlight

Bing Translator (website)

• Can translate pasted text