The MSU Federal Credit Union is installing audio-guided ATMs to assist the visually impaired.

The credit union already has upgraded machines at its main branch, 600 E. Crescent Road.The new machines are equipped with a headphone jack, allowing persons with a visual impairments to use transactions at the machine by hearing directions using headphones. The ability to be audio-guided is a $3,500 software enhancement for the $30,000 to $40,000 money machines.

"We've always been pretty proactive in trying to service all members," said Joyce Banish, vice president of marketing for the credit union. "This was just another step forward."

In regular ATMs, a visually impaired person has to memorize information and keystrokes, which could be different depending on the machine, Banish said. The credit union is continuously modifying its branches, machines and Web site, www.msufcu.com, to be accessible for people with disabilities, she said.

Additional audio ATMs will be installed within the year at Meridian, East Lansing and West Side branches - campus machines at the International Center and the Union also will be upgraded, Banish said.

The credit union responded to recommendations from MSU's Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities, a group that works to make the university more accessible to people with disabilities. The group serves more than 800 MSU students and 200 faculty members.

"They have always come to us in order to remain accessible, and it's something we continue to work on," Banish said.

Sarah Frank