Creator: American Library Association
Date Updated: March 26, 2024
Overview
The American Library Association (ALA) document discusses the importance of public libraries ensuring equal access to technology for those with disabilities. It provides a checklist for libraries to evaluate their level of accessibility by asking questions about the environment and users’ needs. In addition, it provides a brief overview of accommodations and tools that persons with disabilities will use.
The information on this page is summarized from the ALA Library Access Checklist.
Quick Facts
- Libraries must ensure equal public access to technology for all users, regardless of ability, to fulfill their mission of providing free access to information.
- Libraries should follow principles of universal design when selecting technologies to make sure all users, ranging from average to those with various learning or physical disabilities, can use information services.
- A checklist is provided to help libraries assess their current level of technology accessibility and identify areas for improvement.
- Staff should survey facilities and community needs to understand how to provide access.
- Designating computers as “accessible” and having staff available to assist are two common approaches libraries take.
- Accessible computers should include adjustable tables, keyboards, trackballs, wrist rests and enlarged displays to support persons with mobility impairments.
- Screen reading, enlargement and braille software can aid the visually impaired.
- Captioning and text alternatives benefit those with hearing impairments.
- Speech output helps individuals with learning disabilities.
For more information, check out the ALA Library Access Checklist.
Reference
American Library Association. (2009, July 20). Library Access Checklist. American Library Association. https://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/contactwo/oitp/emailtutorials/accessibilitya/23.htm