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Using a switch control to read books

Set up switch access to turn pages and interact with a book

Dan Amos avatar
Written by Dan Amos
Updated this week

Book Creator is the simplest way for all learners to create content in the classroom. We’re committed to making sure every student can access and engage with books, whether they're using a keyboard, adaptive switches, or other assistive technology.

Book Creator online

The web version of Book Creator (available at app.bookcreator.com) is compliant with WCAG Level 2.2 AA. This means the app can be navigated entirely with a keyboard or through indirect scanning via an adaptive switch.

Keyboard Navigation Tips:

  • Turn pages using the left/right arrow keys

  • Start or stop "Read to Me" with the Space bar

  • Customize Read to Me settings for individual needs—choose the voice, enable word highlighting, and decide whether multimedia plays automatically

A screenshot of the read mode settings indicating the options a user has to customize the experience.

For broader keyboard functionality:

  • Use Tab (or Alt/Option + Tab on Safari) to move between items

  • Press Enter to select an item

  • Press Space on selected objects to access the contextual menu

  • Use Shift + arrow keys for quicker object movement

  • Press i to open the Inspector

  • Additional shortcuts include Backspace to delete, Cmd/Ctrl + C/X/V to copy/cut/paste, and Cmd/Ctrl + Z to undo

💡 Top tip! You can find more navigation tips in our Keyboard Navigation article.

Book Creator for iPad

To use switch controls on an iPad, you’ll need to enable Switch Control in your iPad's accessibility settings. Apple’s guide is a great starting point: Use Switch Control to navigate your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

A standout example is shared in Rosey McQuillan’s book Using Book Creator for Differentiated Learning: one student used two adaptive switches, one to activate the "Read to Me" feature and the other to turn pages.


This strategy is demonstrated in a video by Wendy Buckley, Assistive Technology Specialist at Perkins School for the Blind (Massachusetts, USA).

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Learn more about accessibility at Book Creator

To explore how we support inclusive learning through accessible design and tools, visit app.bookcreator.com/support and select Accessibility for more information about our current VPAT, testing methods, and more.


💫 Contact us

If you have any questions about accessibility, or if you experience an issue using Book Creator with assistive technology, please contact:

We welcome your feedback and remain committed to building an inclusive, creative space for every learner.

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