Making Libraries Accessible: Adaptive Design and Assistive Technology

As a provider of public space and digital content, your library is duty-bound to promote equitable access to all users, regardless of whether they use assistive technology. In this issue of Library Technology Reports, editor Booth makes the case that that attention to the core principles of consistency, flexibility, and simplicity go hand in hand with libraries’ commitments to open information and accessibility. Even when staffing levels or resources aren't ideal, libraries can substantially improve the experience of people with disabilities. In this issue, expert contributors address standards, spaces and services, devices, websites, and collections, offering advice on
Assistive technology products, including screen readers, literacy software, and speech input
E-books and e-readers for users with print disabilities, with charts comparing accessibility features of the most common e-readers
The nuts and bolts of using HTML, CSS, Javascript, or JQUERY for accessibility
Best practices for evaluating vendor database compliance