Draft:Library accessibility

Library accessibility is the practice of making libraries usable for disabled people, including both patrons and employees. This goes beyond compliance with rel

Library accessibility is the practice of making libraries usable for disabled people, including both patrons and employees. This goes beyond compliance with related laws (such as the Americans with Disabilities Act or European Accessibility Act), and often includes elements of universal design.[1] Successful library accessibility often includes working with stakeholders with a variety of disabilities.[2]

Accessibility of library spaces

Some accessibility challenges are related to navigating the physical space of the library. For example, floor plans and space layouts may not provide enough room for the use of mobility aids. Inaccessible restrooms are also a concern--larger stalls may have been created, but doors with knobs and no power assist make it difficult or impossible to get in. Where accessible entrances exist, they are often out of the way by docks and dumpsters, and may require ringing a bell for assistance rather than simply entering. Tables and chairs may or may not be height-adjustable, making them difficult for wheelchair users to use.[1][3]

Norms around the use of space in libraries and archives can also cause problems. For example, quiet reading rooms can pose a problem for Hard of Hearing patrons who may struggle to hear or participate in quiet communication.[3] However, some autistic patrons may prefer a quiet space that is less overwhelming.[4]

In a fully accessible library, disabled patrons can access and use collections without requiring assistance from a non-disabled staff member. For example, if non-disabled patrons are able to read original documents in an archive rather than relying on facsimiles, disabled patrons should be able to do so as well. However, older library buildings sometimes require a paging system when the library stacks cannot be made accessible.[2]

Exhibits

Accessible exhibits include multiple sensory channels, usually visual, audio, and tactile. Additionally, objects and their labels are placed appropriately so that wheelchair users can maneuver around them and people at different heights and using mobility aids can read them. Labels are designed for readability and use straightforward language.[3][5]

Web accessibility

Web pages and online tutorials are another site of accessibility challenges. Web accessibility is often measured using the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).[2]

Most academic libraries include accessibility information on their website, often on a dedicated webpage.[6]

Library staff

Disabled people may work as library staff members and require accessible work environments and other accommodations. For example, a visually impaired employee may require magnifying software, while an employee using a wheelchair needs to be able to navigate non-public areas like staff mailboxes or break rooms.[2]

Library science research

There is a growing body of work in the library and information sciences field around disability. However, the terminology and methodology used in this research often reflects ableist worldviews.[4]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b Pionke, JJ (2017-01-01). "Beyond ADA Compliance: The Library as a Place for All". Urban Library Journal. 23 (1). ISSN 1944-9682.
  2. ^ a b c d Kowalsky, Michelle; Woodruff, John (2017). Creating inclusive library environments: a planning guide for serving patrons with disabilities. Chicago: ALA Editions, an imprint of the American Library Association. ISBN 978-0-8389-1485-4.
  3. ^ a b c Tang, Lydia; Relle, Blake; Wolfe, Erin; Perrone, Fernanda (November–December 2016). "Making Archives and Special Collections Accessible". Archival Outlook. Society of American Archivists.
  4. ^ a b Myhill, William N (2026). "Lived Patron Experiences of Dysconscious Ableism in Public Library Spaces". In the Library with the Lead Pipe.
  5. ^ Society of American Archivists (February 2019). Guidelines for Accessible Archives for  People with Disabilities.
  6. ^ Brunskill, Amelia (2020). ""Without That Detail, I'm Not Coming": The Perspectives of Students with Disabilities on Accessibility Information Provided on Academic Library Websites". College & Research Libraries: 768. doi:10.5860/crl.81.5.768.

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