C- Pens Now Available In Wicklow County Council Libraries To Help With Learning.

Wicklow County Council Library Service is delighted to announce that C-Pens are now available for borrowing from all branches.

Wicklow County Council Library Service is delighted to announce that C-Pens – which are an aid to anyone with literacy challenges – are now available for borrowing from all branches.The C-Pen Reader scans and reads text aloud with a natural sounding speaking voice and the user can choose an Irish or English accent.Anyone with dyslexia, aphasia, vision problems and difficulties with pronunciation will find that the pen promotes independent reading and understanding.The built-in dictionary puts the power of Collins English Dictionary and the Oxford Spanish and French Dictionaries in the user’s hands. Simply pass the tip of the pen over a word and it instantly displays the definition and reads it aloud.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Tommy Annesley, said: “This is a welcome and important resource which will encourage independent reading and also increase access to information. Being able to see and hear words read aloud will improve reading and spelling and bolster self-esteem which is crucial to the support of struggling readers.”There is no need for Wi-fi and each pen comes with a carrycase, a cable to charge and a quick start guide in the box. The user may use their own ear-phones or speakers if they wish.

Commenting on the announcement, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Mr Brian Gleeson, said: “Our libraries continue to work at providing inclusive access to a range of literacy supports. I am delighted that C-Pens have been added to our other assistive resources. They will be a great help to people living with reading challenges, as well as students learning French, English or Spanish.”