download.jpegFrom the press release:

Don Johnston Incorporated, a company that develops assistive technology for individuals with disabilities, just announced a new software conversion tool, DAISYtoEPUB, during the 2010 ATIA (Assistive Technology Industry Association) conference in Schaumburg, IL.

The DAISYtoEPUB software converts DAISY 3 (Digital Accessible Information System) electronic files into EPUB, an XML format to easily navigate through digital books and publications. EPUB is the preferred standard format for mainstream eBook readers like the iPad, Nook, Sony Reader, Android devices, and computer-based programs.

The DAISYtoEPUB software will benefit students and individuals with visual impairments and reading disabilities, such as dyslexia, who want to read digital books in specialized assistive technology programs or on one of the new portable, consumer devices that does not currently read DAISY formats, such as the iPad.

“In schools today, students who need accessible books want to use the mainstream technology that their peers are using,” said Ben Johnston, Director of Marketing for Don Johnston. “They don’t want to stand out or look different. Accessibility issues on these devices are still in its infancy. DAISYtoEPUB can help these students read the latest digital content using newer technologies. Now they have more choices.”

Digital files based on the DAISY 3 standard include NIMAS (National Instruction Materials Accessibility Standard) and Bookshare files. The NIMAS format was established to guide the production and electronic distribution of digital versions of K-12 textbooks and instructional materials so that students with qualified print disabilities could receive curriculum and instructional materials in accessible formats based on IDEA law, (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).

The DAISYtoEPUB software works on Mac 10.4+ and Windows XP, Vista, and 7. A license for a single hard drive installation starts at $99 with a range of Unlimited Licenses per district size.

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