Presented at 9:00 am in Denver 4-6 on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
#41080Speaker(s)
- Susan Kelmer, Alternate Format Production Program Manager, University of Colorado Boulder
Session Details
- Length of Session: 2-hr
- Format: Lab
- Expertise Level: Beginner
- Type of session: General Conference
Summary
The struggle with Bookshare files is real - inaccurate page numbering, unusable style/headings structure, images without descriptions, unformatted tables, and other issues. In this session, I will show you how to make that unusable file into something usable that works with almost all types of print disabilities. This hands-on session will show you how to use the right tools and processing to create the perfect file for your students.
Abstract
While Bookshare is a valuable resource for many, there are gaps in accessibility that often need to be addressed. Sighted students are not fond of the epub interface, and text to speech options are sometimes limited or ineffective. In addition, there are many missing pieces in Bookshare files that most students in an academic program need - accurate page numbers, a well-defined heading structure, images (with or without descriptions), formatted tables, and easy-to-access footnotes and copyright information.
When downloading a file from Bookshare, a quick look will show you where the issues are, and in this hands-on session, we will work on correcting those issues. I will walk you through step by step on how to take these inadequate files and make them accessible for virtually all of your students with print disabilities. We will use Microsoft Word to edit these files and fill in the missing information as needed. You will see work with some easy-to-correct files, and some not-so-easy-to-correct files. You should walk out of this session knowing what steps to take to create that perfect file.
This will be a hands-on, learn-by-doing session, and you will have time to practice. Included with the handouts for this session will be access to my Alternate Format Production Manual, which covers all kinds of file remediation processes, not just how to work with Bookshare files.
For those who will be bringing your own devices, you will only need Microsoft Word on a PC/Mac/Tablet to participate with the hands-on activities.
Keypoints
- Learn to assess a Bookshare file to determine if it needs further remediation for your student.
- Understand the changes that need to be made to create a more accessible file for your student.
- Learn to use standard tools in Microsoft Word to remediate the inadequate Bookshare file.
Disability Areas
All Areas
Topic Areas
Alternate Format, Assistive Technology, Uncategorized
Speaker Bio(s)
Susan Kelmer
Ms. Kelmer has been working with alternate format and accessible technology for more than 25 years in a higher education environment. Currently she works at the University of Colorado Boulder in the Alternate Format Production and Access Center, where alternate format materials for students with print disabilities are produced. She also consults with other departments on campus and campuses around the country about alternate format and how to produce materials effectively. She has presented at multiple AHG conferences in the last 20 years.