Resources for ensuring your Library and Information Service is accessible for the disabled
Resources for providing services to disabled users
Providing a library service that is accessible for those with disabilities will mean knowing accessibility standards for your library's physical facilities, the services you provide and for computer access.
You will also need to keep up-to-date with developments in disability and accessibility, such as campaigns like the Right to Read campaign run by the RNIB, new technology and new policy and legislation.
The MLA has many resources on disability and library services including Delivering Library Services for Disabled People a web page that gives useful sources of information for those delivering services to the disabled.
Accessibility for Visitors is a document that looks at new technology and its uses for disabled visitors.
Assistive technology can give those with many types of disabilities and conditions access to computers. AbilityNet have factsheets on all aspects of computing and disabilities.
You can keep up-to-date with web accessibility developments by checking Accessibility guidelines for websites.
TechDis is an educational advisory service, for accessibility and inclusion.
Once you are disability compliant, you will need to ensure that information about your library and services are coded to show the specific facilities you provide. Access codes, developed by Artsline, show whether your venue has facilities for disabled people. The codes are:
E – hearing loop system installed
W - venue with un-stepped access via main or side door, wheelchair spaces and adapted toilet
X - venue with flat or one-step access to event/meeting area
A - venue with 2-5 steps to event/meeting area, or split-level access
S - venue with many unavoidable steps and/or other obstacles for wheelchair users
G - provision for guide dogs
Guidelines for library services to people who are housebound. Library Association Publishing, 1991. is still a good guide to proper procedures and practice for providing services for those who cannot get to a library.
Updated: 30 January 2008