Making the Library Accessible for All

October 1, 2024

Vincent's (assistive technology manager, Univ. of Michigan; Implementing Cost-Effective Assistive Computer Technology) update to the 2013 edition of this book offers a starting point for library staff and administrators to understand the nuances of accessibility and collaborate with people with disabilities to provide safe, comfortable, and sensitively designed library environments. While Vincent also discusses legal accessibility requirements for libraries in the United States, she stresses that, regardless of regulations, the more important goal is to promote inclusion, combat discrimination, and provide equitable access to all library services for all patrons. The book provides an overview of how accessibility can be realized, like communication, materials (electronic formats, DVDs, audio, multimedia), architecture and environment (ADA standards, noise, chemical sensitivities, physical barriers), events (in-person, virtual), technology (built-in, free/open source, displays, input, new technologies), and web accessibility (standards, library websites, testing). Each chapter features in-depth conversations with librarians and accessibility experts, many of whom identify as disabled. These interviews underline the book's central argument that libraries should collaborate with people with disabilities rather than make assumptions about their needs. The book includes three appendixes (including a handy checklist for presentations) and a glossary of frequently used terms. VERDICT Libraries hoping to make their services and programs fully accessible will want to check out this useful and thoughtful guide. Highly recommended.--Sarah Hashimoto

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