Tips for Searching the Database: Troubleshooting Questions & Answers

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Q: I know the name of the item I want to borrow, but when I enter it into the search box, I cannot find it in the database. Does this mean the Loan Program Inventory does not have it available?

A: Try entering only a portion of the item name into the Search by Name box (for example: Dyna to get DynaVox). This broad method of searching will show all items with that phrase in the database (whether it is listed as part of the name, inventory code, description, or manufacturer). Do NOT use the word "and" to separate search terms and do NOT search with plural words (for example: type "screen reader" not "screen readers"). Also, be cautious about including spaces and dashes (for example: "seensay" or "see-n-say" will not give you the device "see n say," but the word "see" will). If you are still unable to find the item, contact the Loan Program Inventory to verify that it is not available or to find similar items. Also, you can scroll to the bottom of this page for a list of specific keywords that can help you find certain types of devices.
Q: The item I want is listed as discontinued, how can I find an item to borrow that is still available for purchase?

A: Start by looking at the similar items listed along with the description. If no similar devices are available, try searching again using the category listing of the discontinued item. If you still are unable to find what you are looking for, contact the Loan Program Inventory.
Q: There are no similar items shown for a certain item listed in the database. Does this mean that it is the only item of its kind available through the Loan Program Inventory?

A: There is not always an exact match between devices. The Loan Program Inventory does its best to list similar items in a user-friendly manner. Some items are categorized according to method of activation, some by purpose, some by comparable systems and some by size. If no similar item is listed, try browsing within the category you were given for that specific item, to see if any of the other descriptions fit what you need. If you are still uncertain or unable to find what you are looking for contact the Loan Program Inventory.
Q: What are some general keyword search terms I can use?

A:
- Alternative Keyboard
- Amplified Phone
- CCTV
- Cordless Phone
- Deaf and Blind
- Digitized Speech
- Dynamic Display
- Hands-free
- Hard of Hearing
- Hearing Carry Over
- Low Vision
- Mouse
- On-Screen Keyboard
- Portable CCTV
- Reading Machine
- Remote Control
- Scanning
- Screen Magnifier
- Screen Reader
- Single Message
- Synthesized Speech
- Talking Calculator
- Text-to-speech
- Toy Kit
- VCO
- Voice Carry Over
- Word Prediction
Q: What are some keyword search terms I can use to find age-appropriate education software?

A:
- PreK
- First Grade
- Second Grade
- Third Grade
- Fourth Grade
- Fifth Grade
- Sixth Grade
- Seventh Grade
- Eighth Grade
- Ninth Grade
- Tenth Grade
- Eleventh Grade
- Twelfth Grade

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